Rushcombe First School

Overview

Rushcombe First School is described as an ‘exceptional school’ where pupils ‘flourish’ and are ‘proud to be part of it’. The inspection found that leaders have designed a ‘rich, inclusive and ambitious curriculum’ that places the pupils’ needs at its heart, resulting in outstanding achievement across all areas.

Strengths

• The curriculum is meticulously planned, ensuring pupils ‘learn and remember the right content at the right time’ and can make links between subjects.
• Reading instruction is ‘highly effective’, with staff being ‘high skilled in the teaching of reading’ and quickly identifying pupils at risk of falling behind.
• Pupils’ behaviour is ‘exemplary’, with bullying being ‘extremely rare’ and students demonstrating ‘impeccable manners’ and deep respect for others.
• Personal development is integral to school life, helping pupils build knowledge of ‘healthy and lead safe, active lives’ and understand different cultures and beliefs.
• Staff provide ‘excellent pastoral support’, creating a ‘calm and productive’ atmosphere where pupils feel ‘happy and safe’.

Areas to improve

The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders creating a ‘strong culture of safeguarding’ and staff being well trained to notice and report concerns.