Eton Wick school turns over a new leaf with latest 'good' rating

A lot of improvements have been made at Eton Wick Church of England First School, an Ofsted inspection found in late September.

The school was given a ‘requires improvement’ back in 2018 where inspectors heavily criticised the leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning, and assessment, and outcome for pupils.

But now it was nothing but praise from the latest inspection, which was published on November 17.

Inspectors said, since the previous full visit, leaders and teachers have strengthened the teaching of mathematics and English. Staff closely check pupils’ understanding of these subjects and use this information to adapt their teaching, resulting in pupils developing the knowledge and skills they need.

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Teachers, in particular, were praised for supporting pupils well in their subjects as well as giving extra support to special educational needs and disabilities students’ in English and maths as well as allowing extra time for pupils struggling to read.

Pupils learn about some of the celebrations from the world’s main faiths, starting from their own experiences to help them to be welcoming of others’ backgrounds and beliefs. Books and stories are used as a starting point to discuss important social issues, such as child refugees.

In the early years, children are encouraged to make good choices about eating well, and they are helped to manage their emotions. Older pupils learn the importance of having a healthy body and healthy mind through the wide range of clubs available.

While the Governors have visited the school to review improvements and to check on well-being, they were criticised for not having enough knowledge to challenge leaders about the curriculum.

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Safeguarding was praised for being “effective” after extra training was provided to staff to learn about what signs to be alerted to and what support they can provide.

The report had some slight criticisms such as leaders needing to ensure subject leaders are sufficiently experienced and skilled in their fields.

Pupils needing to remember key learning in science and foundation plans must be checked by teachers and use the information to adjust future lessons.

Cllr Stuart Carroll, lead member for children’s services, said: “A huge congratulations to the school. I think their headteacher and the teachers have done a fantastic job as well as the officers within our council who have provided excellent support.

“It’s a real triumph and success. It is vital that we ensure every single school in the borough is operating at a good, if not outstanding, level and it’s really pleasing to see this school progress with such excellence.

“Like all schools, Eton Wick has been operating in a pandemic environment, and to achieve this and to show that agility and flexibility are particularly impressive.”