On the Up and Up

SIAMS* Inspector Richard Wharton noted,

“All members of the community clearly articulate the distinctively Christian values of the school and there is an exemplary level of engagement by all in the vision for education which arises from these values.

“All members of the school community are rightly proud of the distinctive character of their school and talk in impressive depth about the way in which it influences their relationships and decisions.

“Learners are excited and challenged by Religious Education (RE) and it plays a significant role in the distinctiveness of the school.”

A memorable ‘Great Bedwyn Hot Air Balloon’ illustrates and reinforces the school’s core Christian values of love, forgiveness, friendship, courage, respect and responsibility. Each value is depicted as a flame to help uplift the school community.

There is a clear link between Christian ethos and high achievement, with parents praising the school’s supportive, inclusive approach and focus on relationship-building, as well as an extensive extra-curricular programme.

Headteacher Nicola Williams was pleased with the outcome, saying, “This was an excellent achievement and reflects the hard work of the whole school team.”

The school will continue to develop further exemplary practice, and to widen the children’s experience and understanding of other cultures.

Great Bedwyn School is a Forest school and has been awarded the Silver Healthy Schools Award, Green Tree School award and Eco Schools Award.

The school is of average size, with a published admission number of 210 children, organised into seven classes. The proportion of children with disabilities or additional educational needs is lower than that seen nationally, as is the number of children from ethnic minority groups or who speak English as an additional language.

The main site is located in the village of Great Bedwyn but serves a wide geographical area, with 37% of children attending from outside the village and coming from a range of social backgrounds. The Headteacher took up her post in April 2016 and is supported by an experienced senior leadership team.

Great Bedwyn officially joined Excalibur Academy Trust on 1 April 2018.

www.greatbedwynprimaryschool.co.uk

*Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools