We have a new School Improvement Advisor (SIA). This is someone from the Local Authority who visits us from time to time and monitors, evaluates and provides any support we may seek. Here are some of the words and phrases that help to sum up his report:
- ‘every inch of space available [is used] to create an effective and 21st century learning environment’
- ‘professional approach’
- ‘consistency is a key feature…displays, routines and learning behaviour’
- ‘bright and imaginative displays captured the current theme’
- ‘purposeful application of knowledge and skills’
- ‘sound teacher and other adult relationships had secured the best in terms of learning behaviours from the pupils’
The School Improvement Advisor saw two classes in particular. In Year 5, he saw ‘skillful’, ‘impressive’ teaching with ‘a natural command’ and, from the children, ‘some high quality speaking and listening’. In Reception, he praises the ‘highly effective indoor and outdoor areas … imaginatively created’ and the children’s engagement and ‘purposeful learning’.
He was also impressed by the quality of support staff: ‘…skilfully held the children’s attention in an outdoor PE session’.