Shelley First School

Overview

Shelley First School is described as an inclusive environment where pupils embody values of care, respect, and support. The report highlights a "calm, quiet and purposeful" atmosphere, with staff maintaining high expectations that pupils consistently meet. Leadership is praised for its "quiet dynamism" and strong ethos of teamwork, resulting in effective teaching and robust safeguarding arrangements.

Strengths

• The curriculum in reading and mathematics is "well established and strong," with teachers helping pupils build knowledge step by step.
• Early years provision is "exceptional," particularly in how staff extend pupils’ vocabulary and prepare them for Year 1.
• Leaders ensure reading is a priority, providing daily phonics lessons and well-matched books for early readers.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive "tailored adjustments" and effective catch-up programmes.
• Staff are well-supported and trained, with senior leaders investing in their skills to "empower and equip them" to support learning.

Areas to improve

• The impact of the curriculum has been "less strong in some foundation subjects," leading to gaps in pupils’ knowledge.
• Leaders should ensure pupils can "link and build on prior knowledge" so they perform as well in foundation subjects as in English and mathematics.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders taking responsibilities seriously, conducting necessary staff checks, and ensuring pupils are knowledgeable about risks such as online safety.