OFSTED inspectors have praised a primary school in Bridgwater for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

St John and St Francis Church School was inspected remotely during March 2021.

Stewart Gale and Julie Carrington, Ofsted inspectors, said the school was "taking effective action to provide education".

At the time, around two thirds of the students were being educated at home. And all pupils who were vulnerable were being taught at the school site.

Headteacher Jenny Venning, said she was "immensely proud" of the progress that the school had made.

"Despite the challenges of the pandemic we have continued to focus on our journey of school improvement, and this has been clearly recognised by Ofsted," she said.

"This is an important milestone in the success of our school, and we are delighted with the outcome."

Mr Gale and Ms Carrington spoke to Mrs Venning and other senior leaders, as well as the multi-academy trust chief executive officer, representatives of those responsible for governance, and staff.

They also observed pupils from Years 1 and 2.

The inspectors concluded:

  • Senior leaders, including governors, took the necessary actions to provide education in the current circumstances. They ensured that there was a ‘warm and ready’ welcome for pupils who have recently returned.
  • Leaders took effective action to develop the school’s curriculum, despite the interruptions caused by Covid-19.
  • Following the return to school of all pupils, teachers were quick to check what pupils know and can remember in different subjects.
  • Staff prioritised reading and phonics, including in the Reception Year. As a result, teachers provided high-quality reading and phonics lessons, aimed at helping pupils who had fallen behind.
  • Leaders are continuing to deliver an appropriate remote curriculum for pupils who are not in school. The remote offer has been successful in allowing pupils to continue learning at home and is well placed to continue, if needed.
  • Leaders, including the special educational needs coordinator, made sure that the education and care of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities was a priority. For example, a speech and language therapist continued to provide effective support to those who needed it.
  • Governors and trustees kept in regular contact with the head teacher and other senior leaders to hold them to account.
  • The trust, the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Trust, provided support and training which helped staff to secure the necessary improvements.