Dear Parents and Carers,
We were delighted to welcome Neil Swait yesterday for an external review, which focused on Nursery (Brumble Bees) and Personal Development. We are really pleased with the feedback, which recognised many strengths across the school.
Neil found that our personal development offer is highly effective, with a well-sequenced curriculum underpinned by the Jigsaw programme and enriched through assemblies, RE, geography and wider school experiences. He highlighted the strong support provided to staff through high-quality resources and professional development, ensuring consistency in delivery.
The review recognised the breadth of our character development opportunities, including OPAL, Building Learning Powers, Forest School, educational visits, music and sport, all of which help pupils develop resilience, confidence and positive learning behaviours. Pupils were found to have a secure understanding of British values, diversity and protected characteristics, with SMSC development embedded throughout school life.
Our pastoral provision was praised as a particular strength, with positive relationships, early intervention and a wide range of targeted support helping pupils thrive both emotionally and academically. The review also recognised the school's inclusive approach to enrichment, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, can fully participate in clubs, visits and residential experiences.
In nursery, Neil observed a calm, welcoming and nurturing environment where children are happy, settled and well cared for. He praised the warm relationships between staff and children, the high-quality adult interactions that promote communication and language, and the well-planned learning opportunities that support children's development across both indoor and outdoor environments. Children were seen to be engaged, confident learners who benefit from accessible resources and skilled adult support.
Overall, the review was extremely positive and provides strong external validation of the quality of our provision in both Personal Development and Early Years.
Best wishes,
Corrinne Smith
Head of School
