Emmer Green Primary School, located in Reading, Berkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on 22 and 23 October 2024, resulting in an outstanding evaluation across all key areas. The school has maintained its high standards since its last inspection in February 2012, when it was also rated outstanding. The school is known for its ambitious educational approach, providing pupils with an excellent quality of education. The expectations set for students are notably high, and they consistently strive to meet these standards, achieving exceptional results.
The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by warmth and respect, contributing to an environment where pupils exhibit exemplary behavior. They are thoughtful, kind, and considerate towards one another and the adults in the school. From the outset in Reception, children are encouraged to communicate effectively and share any concerns they may have. This is facilitated through practices such as writing down worries and discussing them with trusted adults, which helps pupils focus on their learning.
Pupils are given opportunities to take on responsibilities within the school community, such as becoming reading ambassadors or participating in litter-picking teams. They take pride in these roles, understanding the importance of contributing to the school environment. The school promotes tolerance and understanding by ensuring pupils visit various places of worship, which helps them appreciate different beliefs and cultures.
The curriculum at Emmer Green Primary is highly ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils learn essential knowledge in a logical sequence from Reception through Year 6. The focus on vocabulary development begins early, with expert staff supporting pupils in building strong language skills. This is complemented by regular assessments that help teachers identify what pupils have retained and what needs further reinforcement.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a clear and systematic approach to phonics instruction tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. Teachers are adept at identifying those who may be falling behind and provide targeted support to help them catch up. The school fosters a genuine love of reading among pupils, which is evident from their early years.
Writing skills are also prioritized, with staff modeling accurate sentence construction and providing ample opportunities for practice across various subjects. This approach builds pupils' confidence in their writing abilities as they progress through the school.
Pupils demonstrate impressive attitudes towards learning, consistently meeting the school's high expectations. In the Reception class, children learn to play cooperatively and transition smoothly between activities, developing strong social and emotional skills. The school collaborates effectively with families to ensure high attendance rates among all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The personal development program is comprehensive, offering pupils new experiences and helping them aspire to future opportunities. Initiatives such as a university week expose pupils to various career paths and skill development. The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs that cater to diverse interests.
Leadership at Emmer Green Primary is characterized by a shared ambitious vision, with staff working collaboratively to achieve this goal. The school prioritizes high-quality training for staff, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively and maintain high standards. Staff well-being is also a priority, contributing to a supportive work environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils. Overall, Emmer Green Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a positive and enriching learning experience for its pupils.