The Executive Headteacher at Burley Gate Primary School, Mrs Michele Lewis, and the Head of School, Mrs Tracy Westlake, have expressed their pride after the school received a glowing report following a SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglian and Methodist Schools) visit in April.
The Inspector noted that the school has a number of significant strengths, stating that the Christian vision permeates every aspect of school life and that the ‘leaders and staff are highly ambitious, fully invested and committed to Burley Gate’.
The school was found to have a ‘transformational impact on the lives of both pupils and adults’, as they feel valued and appreciate that their wellbeing is prioritised. Driven by the vision ‘to love your neighbour as yourself’, there is a supportive, respectful and nurturing culture, with opportunities for individuals to reflect and consider their own feelings and beliefs.
There is a sense of togetherness in the school community, resulting in strong relationships, while the well-crafted curriculum means pupils have a deep knowledge and understanding of Christianity, world religions and worldviews. Complex concepts are discussed with a maturity and high level of religious literacy.
In addition, strong partnerships with St Michael’s CE Primary School at Bodenham and the Diocese of Hereford Multi-Academy Trust (DHMAT) enrich the provision for pupils, which support the whole school community to learn, grow and flourish.
Burley Gate Primary was also identified as being central to the community it serves, with strong and mutually supportive relationships between the school and village organisations.
For example, there is a community library based within the entrance of the school, giving members of the wider community the opportunity to come in and borrow books to read with their families.
The school also serves as a hub for community events, such as weddings and first aid courses, and to tackle loneliness in the village, the school organises numerous events to connect with the local elderly friendship group. Coming together in this way brings love and joy to local ‘neighbours’ of the school.
Speaking about the report received following the inspection, Mrs Lewis said:
“I am so proud of everyone at the school. I know what a great school this is, but to read that the Inspector could see it clearly too is incredibly rewarding.
“The report repeatedly mentions the loving, positive culture we have here and the fact that families are proud to be part of the school community, feeling that ‘everyone is important’ and everything is done in love’, make everyone’s hard work so worthwhile.
“I am particularly pleased that the report states that the school ‘emanates a powerful sense of belonging and togetherness driven by its vision’ and that pupils and adults instinctively care for each other. That vision underpins our commitment to make bold decisions for the mental health and well-being of those in their care, including taking the decision to employ a school counsellor to support this work.
“As a result of this, attendance and attainment have improvedand it was lovely to read that staff unanimously feel well looked after and valued.
Meanwhile, Mrs Westlake commented:
“I would like to place on record my thanks to everyone within the school community for the love and support they show to each other and, most of all, I would like to thank everyone who makes Burley Gate Primary the outstanding learning environment that it is.”
