'Thriving' Exmouth primary praised by inspectors
The emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing of pupils is in good hands after the Beacon Church of England Primary School in Exmouth was given a glowing report by Diocesan inspectors.
All schools with a religious character, such as Church of England schools, are inspected for the quality of its denominational education and the content of its collective worship.
These inspections are in addition to Ofsted Inspections.
And in the latest Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools Report, Inspector David Hatrey described the school as ‘thriving’ and that its Christian vision ‘inspires …(and) shapes improvements and permeates throughout daily life.’
Pupils, he said, follow the Christian example of ‘caring for all’ leading them to treat one another with a ‘high degree of dignity and respect’.
He wrote: “The provision to meet pupils’ social, emotional, mental health and wellbeing is a strength…(and) addresses pupils’ diverse needs, transforming lives and attitudes.”
Leaders at ‘all levels’ were dedicated, committed and lead by example: “The (school’s) vision nurtures a culture of caring,” he said.
“(Christianity) inspires the school and directs its daily life…pupils see themselves as ‘shepherds’ (and) making a difference to others…
“The vision gives clear strategic direction to improvements. It inspires leaders to respond to the growing diverse needs of pupils.”
Staff build relationships with families, addressing persistent absence by providing a secure ‘fold’ where everyone knows that they are valued.
Pupils know how to identify their emotions, and they share these with adults; while older pupils take on the role of mental health ambassadors, becoming ‘shepherds’ and offering support to others.
“An impressive range of opportunities allow pupils to discover their talents,” he noted.
“All pupils learn a musical instrument, fully supported by the school. An orchestra, choir and drama productions extend this creative culture. Sporting activities offer experiences where pupils can stand out. This grows self-belief.”
Collective worship, he said, is inclusive, inspirational and enables ‘Big’ questions and current affairs to be explored, challenging pupils' thinking.
For instance, pupils challenged their local member of parliament about the building of new homes that do not have solar panels, while Fairtrade workshops led the school council to challenge the catering company to use appropriately sourced food.
And alongside the University of Exeter, pupils designed a video shared with global leaders at the recent climate change conference.
Individual pupils have raised the plight of the homeless and the impact of the cost of living.
“The RE curriculum is broad and diverse…for instance, a unit on humanism deepens awareness of a range of beliefs.
“Pupils show a thoughtful appreciation of worldviews. Families and pupils share how their faith shapes actions.
“This enables pupils to pose their own questions, deepening their awareness of diversity and similarities.”
He concluded: “The school has a reputation for the quality of its provision. This (inspection) shows the vision being lived out.”
Headteacher Anne Billington said: “I am delighted that so many strengths of our school were recognised by our inspector. Staff and Governors work hard to support every member of our One Big Beacon Family to live life in all its fullness (John 10:10) and that was clearly recognised in our report.”
