Primary school wins inspector’s praise for its ‘caring culture’
A Bath school has been praised for its ‘warm and caring community’ by the Church of England.
St Philip’s Church of England Primary School – which has 273 pupils – at Odd Down was praised by inspectors in the SIAMS report, the Church’s equivalent of Ofsted.
The report stated leaders demonstrated a clear understanding of the school’s Christian vision and the way it is underpinned through biblical teaching. It added that the school values create a ‘deeply supportive caring culture’ and ‘wellbeing of all is prioritised and adults and pupils treat each other well.’
It stated: “The vision of St Philip’s rooted in the words of Jesus, is widely understood, and articulated and has a very positive impact. A set of well-chosen and long-established Christian values weave through all aspects of daily life and unite the school.
“The school’s curriculum is an expression of its vision enabling all to flourish by living life in all its fullness. Regular reviews of the content and relevance of the curriculum by leaders and staff ensure learning is engaging. It is fully focussed on providing a stimulating curriculum which meets the needs of pupils. The headteacher, senior leaders and staff make bold decisions with the curriculum. As a result of their actions, the potential of pupils considered to be disadvantaged is transformed. Consequently, pupils enjoy their learning and highly value their time at school.
“The school is warmly welcomed to church for the main Christian festivals, thus developing pupils’ understanding of the church year. Worship provides times of calm, quiet reflection, prayer and joyful singing. These activities promote a deep sense of spiritual flourishing which sustains and inspires the community.
“St Philip’s is a warm, caring community where all are treated well. Strong relationships, inspired by the vision and associated values such as respect are central to this. Older pupils take caring and responsible roles as buddies for younger ones. Staff speak of a culture where seeking support is actively encouraged by leaders who prioritise their mental health and wellbeing. As a result staff morale is high. Pupils describe the importance of their relationships with peers and highly value having ‘friends to lean on.’ In this way, the vision enables them to enjoy life and help others to do so. St Philip’s is an inclusive, friendly school community where bullying is rare.
“Healthy relationships are promoted very well by the school’s relationship and sex education which reflects the vision. A calm and respectful atmosphere permeates life and is evident throughout the school. Difference and diversity are welcomed and celebrated in this accepting community .”
It concluded: “The inspection findings indicate that St Philip’s Church of England Primary School is living up to its foundation as a Church school.”
Andrew Joy, headteacher, said: “I’m delighted that our school, our children and our incredible staff have been recognised in such a positive light in our latest SIAMS report. Our collaborative approach and commitment as a team has created a caring and vibrant culture where everyone feels safe and able to succeed.
“The pupils the inspector met and observed during her visit showed a real pride in their school and I was incredibly proud of them and their behaviour and learning they demonstrated. I’d like to thank all the pupils, parents, carers, staff and governors for their continued support and dedication to our school. As acknowledged in the report, we have a ‘warm, caring community,’ with the vision and values of the school promoting the pupils to ‘flourish by living life in all its fullness.’
I’m delighted that our school, our children and our incredible staff have been recognised in such a positive light in our latest SIAMS report
Andrew Joy, headteacher