Incredible Devon school described as 'heart of the village'

A primary school in Devon has been described by parents as the 'heart of the village'. Aveton Gifford CE Primary School in the South Hams has released its results of its most recent SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) report by the Church of England.

The school near Kingsbridge, which is seen as having a ‘culture of acceptance’, is ‘living up to its foundation as a Church school’ with a Christian vision that ‘shines through school life’. The ‘Visionaries,’ a group of older pupils, help to inspire younger children and ‘recognise the importance of modelling the values’.

Fern De Beer, Head of School, said: "Our values are compassion, joy, friendship, perseverance, thankfulness and trust and our vision is ‘Sowing the Seeds for Success’. We're proud of our pupils for recognising Bible stories about ‘seeds’ and how they ‘link to everyday experiences.

"We have a strong relationship with the local vicar and church where we connect via many joint events and worship, and have great connections with parents and carers with excellent two-way communication. We’re proud of our strong behaviour and attendance routines and thank everyone for their support in this, and we’re especially proud to see recognition for our pupils who stand up for each other and undertake significant charitable outreach work."

The report acknowledges the staff who are seen to ‘flourish in their roles as they know they are valued and nurtured’. Governing body, First Federation Trust, supports the school with leadership and training opportunities and ‘knowledgeable governors and directors provide expertise and challenge, ensuring that the vision is a priority.’

Worship routines are ‘deeply embedded within the fabric of the school’ supporting pupils in ‘making good choices and encouraging them to care for their environment and others’. Enthusiastic staff have ‘strong subject knowledge’ in RE due to excellent training, resulting in children who thoroughly enjoy the subject and ‘deepening their comprehension across the wider curriculum’.

Children are ‘curious learners’ who ask and answer ‘thoughtful and thought-provoking questions’ with a curriculum which also offers ‘opportunities for pupils to reflect and develop spiritually’ with a ‘calm and focused’ learning behaviour and ‘stimulating learning spaces both inside and out’. Pupils are encouraged to have their own opinions and are given a physical outdoor space where they can ‘reflect on what it means to have religious faith’.

Paul Walker, Chief Executive Officer of First Federation Trust, said: "Aveton Gifford is particularly strong in supporting pupils who are vulnerable or disadvantaged and are seen to have an ‘inclusive learning environment’. We work alongside leaders at the school to examine individual needs and determine any gaps which we seek to improve."

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