Thornhill Primary School, located in Houghton Regis, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 26-27, 2019. The school is characterized by a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences. They appreciate their teachers, feel safe, and are motivated to engage in their studies. The high expectations set by teachers regarding behavior and academic performance are met with commendable responses from the students, who demonstrate resilience and a willingness to persevere through challenges.
The school fosters a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that new pupils quickly feel integrated into the community. Students exhibit politeness and respect towards one another, as well as towards adults and visitors. They embrace diversity, expressing an understanding that it is acceptable to be different. The curriculum includes learning about various cultures and countries, which enriches their educational experience. Instances of bullying are reported to be minimal, and pupils are confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by the staff.
Thornhill Primary School offers a variety of extracurricular activities, particularly on Tuesdays, which pupils find enjoyable and beneficial. Educational trips are also valued, as they enhance the learning experience and introduce students to new concepts and ideas. The school adheres to the national curriculum, with leaders carefully planning the subjects and the sequence in which they are taught. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that learning builds progressively from one year to the next. This sometimes results in missed opportunities for teachers to build on prior knowledge effectively.
In the early years, the school emphasizes activities that cater to children's interests and curiosity, promoting collaborative play and learning. There is a strong focus on developing early reading, writing, and mathematics skills, preparing children well for Year 1. The teaching of reading is prioritized, with staff demonstrating a solid understanding of phonics instruction. Pupils are provided with appropriately leveled reading materials, and those requiring additional support are identified and assisted promptly, leading to improved reading confidence and fluency.
While most pupils enjoy reading, some struggle to develop a deeper comprehension of texts. Teachers are actively working to address this by introducing a broader vocabulary and comprehension strategies. In mathematics, teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge, effectively addressing misunderstandings and reinforcing essential skills through practice. The achievement of pupils in mathematics is on an upward trajectory.
The school effectively meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they participate fully in all learning activities. Leaders are committed to fostering pupils' personal development, as evidenced by discussions on democracy and social issues in various lessons. Pupils appreciate the responsibilities they hold within the school, contributing to their sense of belonging and engagement.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, particularly among disadvantaged pupils. Leaders are aware of the need to improve attendance rates and are taking steps to support families in this regard. The governing body and school leaders are committed to continuous improvement, with a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas that require further development. Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, Thornhill Primary School provides a solid foundation for its students, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
