Busbridge Infant School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils flourish at this school, showing eagerness to learn in a safe and nurturing place.

They benefit from a rich curriculum taught in a vibrant environment. Pupils listen intently and respond confidently when speaking to adults, building deep knowledge and self-assurance. They are courteous and respectful to adults, visitors and peers.

Pupils' behaviour is exemplary, meeting the school's high expectations. They are enthusiastic learners and achieve highly.

The school provides numerous opportunities to help pupils become well-rounded individuals and citizens.

Besides academic learning, pupils gain life skills such as visiting a farm and learning how... to care for animals. The well-considered school events extend and enrich the school's curriculum, for example experiencing live theatre, celebrating VE Day and learning in a science week project.

Pupils value the variety of clubs available, which develop their talents and interests.

During breaktimes, pupils engage in play joyfully, eagerly participating in activities such as playing tennis, parachute games, reading, using the climbing wall and skipping. They take turns and are considerate of each other. Pupils know that if they have a concern or worry, adults will listen to them and provide support.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school offers a well-structured and ambitious curriculum which defines the essential knowledge and skills pupils should learn. Pupils apply their knowledge in various contexts. This helps pupils to make connections and deepen their learning through the curriculum.

For example, in subjects such as geography and history, pupils develop their understanding of significant people linked to aviation in the local area. This provides pupils with a sense of the world around them and their place in it.

From the youngest age, children thrive, benefiting from nurturing relationships and consistent routines.

They are engaged and inquisitive learners who build confidence and independence. Staff teach the curriculum in such a way that allows pupils to learn exceptionally well. They model learning effectively.

For example, in subjects such as physical education, teachers demonstrate correct techniques and enable pupils to develop essential skills.

Teachers skilfully use questioning to check understanding and deepen pupils' thinking. They identify pupils' misconceptions in lessons and address them swiftly.

Teachers adjust learning activities to close knowledge gaps, ensuring pupils meet the curriculum expectations. Pupils confidently recall and apply key knowledge, building on their learning effectively.

In the early years, children's communication and language skills are a key focus.

Phonics and early language are developed through quality interactions as pupils learn through play. Adults enhance children's language skills by modelling speech, reading stories and singing songs. Staff use ambitious language, encouraging children to do the same.

Children are prepared well for key stage 1.

Reading is a priority. The school provides a wealth of opportunities for pupils to hear adults read to them, which helps develop their love of reading.

For example, pupils value the experience when 'mystery readers' come to read to the class. Well-trained staff deliver the phonics programme expertly. Any pupil who falls behind in their reading is identified quickly and receives support straight away.

As a result, pupils learn to read with fluency and accuracy. Pupils build a strong understanding of mathematics from the early years. They use mathematical knowledge confidently to explain their reasoning.

During problem-solving activities, they enthusiastically discuss their estimations, such as the amount of water needed to fill containers to different levels.

The school swiftly and accurately identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Teachers provide tailored support by expertly adapting lessons to personalise pupils' learning.

Pupils with SEND have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. As a result, pupils with SEND achieve highly.

The wider curriculum is commendable and designed to enhance and enrich pupils' development.

Pupils appreciate the opportunity to take on leadership responsibilities such as school councillors, eco-leaders and 'VIPs' who help to keep the classrooms organised. These responsibilities support pupils to make a valuable contribution to school life. Pupils learn about nature and the environment in the woodland school area.

They confidently discuss fundamental British values, giving examples such as using democratic rules for voting and choosing storybooks. They understand the importance of healthy relationships, tolerance and respect. Pupils understand the significance of maintaining both physical and mental health.

They enjoy participating in the invigorating 'daily dash' activity around the school field.

Leaders at all levels are committed to excellence. Trustees and governors challenge and support school leaders effectively.

Staff feel well supported and proud to be part of the school. They value the professional development opportunities in the trust to develop and refine their expertise.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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