The Devonshire Hill Nursery & Primary School

Overview

The report describes a school where pupils achieve highly, with disadvantaged pupils performing remarkably well and exceeding national averages. Leaders provide an expertly planned curriculum and highly inclusive teaching, ensuring all children, including those with additional needs, make strong progress and feel safe.

Strengths

• Pupils attain above-average levels in reading, writing, and mathematics, with disadvantaged pupils consistently outperforming their non-disadvantaged peers nationally.
• The curriculum is "expertly planned and sequenced," with teachers skilfully developing subject-specific vocabulary and correcting mistakes in the moment.
• Inclusion is a "strong standard," with precise individual targets and external professional support ensuring pupils with barriers to learning thrive alongside peers.
• Personal development is robust, with pupils demonstrating "fundamental British values" and understanding mental health, safety, and ethical choices.
• Staff receive high-quality professional development and feel supported, contributing to a "nurturing and inclusive" environment.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should create more consistent, well-resourced activities in the early years to encourage exploration.
• There should be increased opportunities for pupils to practise early writing and number skills, particularly in the early years.
• Governors should further develop their knowledge and expertise to provide consistent challenge across all areas of the school’s work.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with an open culture where concerns are actively identified and managed, ensuring pupils are made safer and feel safe.