In the recent Ofsted inspection of Portesham CE Primary School in West Dorset, inspectors concluded that the school is Good in all areas, with inclusivity, compassion, ambition and attentiveness at the heart of everything they do.  

Staff have been recognised as having ‘an unwavering commitment to each pupil thriving both academically and socially’ and children are seen to ‘engage in learning and interact positively during social times’.   
  

Victoria Prior, Head of School, said, ‘We have worked extremely hard over the years to improve our provision for children at Portesham, and we are immensely proud of our strong offering in education and personal development. Pupils are fortunate to have a broad range of extra-curricular activities through clubs and external visits including paddle boarding, cooking at a local restaurant, nature club, trips to the local farm and more. We’re lucky to have a team of passionate staff who take the time to get to know people as individuals which allows children to feel comfortable approaching them for help and guidance.’   

Portesham joined First Federation Trust, a multi-academy of 29 primary schools across Devon and Dorset, in January 2022 and has since benefited from the sharing of best practice from other member schools.   

Claire Fegan, Director of School Improvement at First Federation Trust, said, ‘Portesham has worked alongside senior leaders to produce a strong curriculum which Ofsted has deemed to be broad and ambitious. Alongside reading and writing, there is an aptitude for art which pupils find therapeutic. Part of our role at the Trust is to ensure teachers are well trained to be able to deliver these subjects to the best of their ability but just as important, we ensure they are able to support pupils and recognise if they need extra help.’ 

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are offered learning plans highlighting what additional support they need and ‘adaptations in lessons help pupils learn alongside their peers and achieve well’. The school places emphasis on encouraging good behaviour and attendance alongside mental health and wellness.