Newnham Croft Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The school welcomes students from various backgrounds, ensuring that everyone receives a warm reception, whether they join in the early years or transfer from other settings. The sense of community is strong, with parents noting the friendly atmosphere that permeates the school. Pupils demonstrate a supportive attitude towards one another, particularly older students who help younger ones. They take pride in their school and local environment, actively participating in initiatives like the eco committee and school council, which they approach with seriousness and responsibility.
The school has recently revamped its curriculum to make it more ambitious and tailored to the diverse needs of its community. Leaders have thoughtfully identified the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire, ensuring that new content builds on prior learning. For instance, in science, students progress from simple observational tasks to more complex experiments as they advance through the years. This structured approach enables pupils to achieve well, as they possess the foundational knowledge necessary for new learning.
Reading instruction is a strong point at Newnham Croft, with effective support systems in place to help pupils who may need to catch up. The phonics program is designed to give children a solid start, equipping them with the skills to apply their phonics knowledge confidently in writing. The selection of diverse literature allows pupils to explore stories from various cultures, fostering a love for reading. The school has also introduced a café library to encourage students to share their favorite books with peers, enhancing their reading experience.
Teachers adapt the curriculum to meet the specific needs of their students, providing resources and support for those with English as an additional language and those with special educational needs. This inclusive approach ensures that all pupils can access the curriculum alongside their peers, promoting effective learning. However, there are instances where the work set for some pupils does not challenge them sufficiently, which can hinder their potential for deeper learning. The school is encouraged to ensure that tasks are appropriately matched to pupils' needs to maximize their achievement.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to routines and develop independence, with the curriculum significantly enhancing their communication and language skills. Staff interactions with children are effective, guiding them to think critically about their learning and use new vocabulary appropriately. Overall, pupils enjoy their time at school, exhibiting good behavior and attendance. The school has established trusting relationships with parents, addressing attendance issues and supporting families as needed.
The curriculum also promotes personal development, teaching pupils about diverse religions and themes through community involvement. Pupils learn about online safety and well-being, benefiting from a variety of enriching experiences and visits that enhance their education. The governing body is actively engaged, regularly visiting the school to monitor progress and support staff well-being.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school has undergone significant leadership changes since the last inspection, with a new headteacher and leadership team in place. This inspection marks the second ungraded evaluation since the school was last deemed good, reflecting its ongoing commitment to improvement and excellence in education.
