New Forest Primary School celebrates 'excellent' SIAMS rating

The New Forest CofE Primary School and Nursery, at Landford and Nomansland, achieved the top grade of 'excellent' through the Statutory Inspection of Church Schools (SIAMS) process in July.

During the graded visit, inspectors looked at the school's Christian vision, the provision the school makes because of this vision and how effective this provision is in enabling all pupils to flourish.

The New Forest School's vision is 'learning together through friendship and faith' and its ethos adopts the story of Zacchaeus the Tax Collector, which it says underpins its values of kindness, fairness and hope.

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Inspector Anna Willcox found the Christian vision, which is understood and owned by the entire school, shapes every aspect of the school's work.

She said: "A tangible ethos of love, care, friendship and kindness floods this school, directly reflecting the vision. All members of the school family feel valued and exceptionally well supported, empowering them to achieve their very best."

The New Forest Primary School. (Image: The New Forest Primary School)Religious Education incites pupils to "revel in opportunities to think deeply about themselves, others and the wider world".

The school has a "mutually beneficial" partnership with local churches which ensures the "very best opportunities for all".

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Ms Willcox highlighted the only area for development is for the school to "fully embed the approach to spirituality so that pupils' ability to reflect on the world beyond the physical is further developed."

In conclusion, she added: "Being part of this special school family transforms lives and equips pupils to become the very best version of themselves."

Pupils celebrate an 'excellent' result. (Image: The New Forest Primary School)Headteacher Caroline Whittaker has worked and the school for the last 18 years and she's delighted with the outcome of the inspection.

She said: “This is a tremendous affirmation of the hard work and fabulous teamwork at The New Forest (C of E) Primary School and Nursery. I am incredibly proud of the pupils, parents and our staff.

"The report contains helpful advice for us about the further development of our strong vision and values in order for all members of the school to flourish.

"In particular, we will continue to work with our partner schools, our local churches and Salisbury Diocese to share the excellent practise that happens in our school."

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The New Forest School joined Magna Learning Partnership in 2020 to form a trust of 10 schools in and around Salisbury.

CEO Ian Tucker, at Magna, said: "I am thrilled with the outcome of this inspection, but not surprised. Any visitor to this wonderful school is immediately struck by the quality of experience provided for the children here."

The full report is available at thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk.