Combe Down School is Excellent in Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report

Combe Down Church of England Primary School has been found Excellent in all areas following its Statutory Inspection for its Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) Report.

The inspection focuses on the impact of a church school’s Christian vision on pupils and adults within the school community. This includes the school’s Christian vision, the provision the school makes because of this vision and how effective this provision is in enabling all pupils to flourish.

Inspectors speak to key people/groups such as pupils, staff, governors, subject leaders, senior leaders, parents and clergy. Inspectors also speak informally to parents at the school gate, pupils at playtimes and lunchtime, and midday supervisors.

Among the key findings in the report were – SIAMS report key findings:

‘Combe Down has a vision which is deeply rooted in biblical teaching. It is lived out through the symbolism of the mustard tree which pupils recognise as their own school. It enables all members to flourish in the same way as the mustard seed in the parable. The vision is integral to every aspect of school life. It is driven by the strength of the school’s partnership with its parents, the church and the trust.’

‘The aspirational vision inspires pupils to be the best they can be within a culture of high expectations. Enrichment events such as careers fairs stretch pupils’ imaginations and challenge stereotypes.’

"Combe Down is an inclusive, warm and friendly school community which both adults and pupils recognise ‘as a family’. As a result, bullying is rare. Healthy relationships are promoted very well by the relationships and sex education which reflects the vision.’

“Thank you to all who were able to contribute to the day,” said Headteachers Mrs Gascoigne and Mrs Bird. “We are pleased that the Christian vision and values shine out in our school and that the relationship with Holy Trinity and the wider community is celebrated. We relish the opportunity to further develop with the recommendations in the report.”