Foxton Primary School, located in Cambridge, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The staff's commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere is evident, as pupils express enjoyment in attending school and demonstrate enthusiasm for learning. The school emphasizes high expectations, which encourages pupils to engage actively in their education. They particularly enjoy exploring their local area and understanding its context within broader communities.
The school promotes core values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience, which pupils embody through various roles, including supporting younger peers. The behavior of pupils is commendable, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. Instances of bullying are rare, and any issues are addressed promptly. Lunchtime is characterized by positive interactions, with pupils sharing and playing together harmoniously. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, praising the dedication of the leadership and teaching staff.
The curriculum at Foxton Primary School is well-structured and ambitious, with leaders having carefully considered the knowledge they want pupils to acquire. In subjects like reading and mathematics, the curriculum is designed to build understanding progressively. Teachers effectively link subjects, enhancing pupils' ability to apply knowledge across different areas. However, in a few subjects, the clarity regarding specific learning objectives could be improved, which may lead to inconsistencies in teaching focus.
In the early years, the curriculum is meticulously planned and delivered, ensuring that children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored support that enables these pupils to make significant progress.
Foxton Primary School has implemented a phonics program that begins in the early years, ensuring that reading instruction is aligned with the sounds pupils are learning. This approach has proven effective, as pupils quickly become confident and fluent readers, developing a love for reading through exposure to a diverse range of texts.
The school maintains a focus on attendance, with leaders monitoring it closely and communicating expectations to parents. Despite this, some pupils still require improvement in their attendance to maximize their learning opportunities. The school educates pupils about diversity and democracy, fostering an understanding of these concepts and their relevance in everyday life.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors bringing a wealth of skills and knowledge. They possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The leadership team is proactive in seeking guidance from the local authority to enhance subject leadership further.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and vigilant in their responsibilities, ensuring that pupils know whom to approach with concerns. The school collaborates with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and their families, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding.
In summary, Foxton Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a supportive and effective learning environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in clarifying learning objectives in some subjects and enhancing attendance, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable. The dedication of the staff, the positive behavior of pupils, and the strong support from parents contribute to a thriving educational community.
