Hemingford Grey Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 14 and 15 May 2024. The school is located in Hemingford Grey, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, and serves pupils aged four to eleven. The inspection highlighted that pupils enjoy their time at the school, feeling safe and well cared for by the staff. The school emphasizes the well-being of its students, fostering an environment of respect and togetherness. This ethos is evident in the warm welcome that all pupils receive.
The curriculum at Hemingford Grey Primary School is broad and engaging, allowing pupils to achieve well. The school effectively integrates technology into learning, helping students become independent learners. Pupils respond positively to the high expectations set by their teachers, demonstrating good behavior and kindness towards one another. Any instances of unkindness are promptly addressed, contributing to a friendly atmosphere conducive to learning and play.
Playtime and lunchtime are enjoyable experiences for pupils, with a variety of activities available that promote physical health and well-being. The school also maintains strong communication with parents and carers, providing them with valuable information about school life.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that begins in the early years, ensuring that young children are well-prepared for their future education. Teachers clearly explain each step of the learning process, enabling pupils to build on their prior knowledge. The school regularly assesses pupil achievement at the end of units of work, using this information to adapt the curriculum and address any gaps in understanding. However, there are instances where teachers do not check pupils' understanding thoroughly enough during lessons, which can lead to misconceptions not being addressed in a timely manner.
Hemingford Grey Primary School effectively identifies pupils who require additional support, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff have high expectations for these pupils and provide personalized support to help them overcome barriers to learning. The use of digital technology allows pupils to revisit lesson explanations, ensuring that they can keep up with their peers.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with staff trained to understand the causes of various behaviors. This training enables staff to guide pupils in making positive choices. The school prioritizes attendance, implementing strategies to encourage punctuality and regular attendance, which has led to improvements in this area.
Reading is a fundamental aspect of the school's educational approach, with lessons starting as soon as children enter Reception. Staff are skilled in teaching reading and are attentive to pupils who need extra help. Reading materials are matched to pupils' knowledge, and parents are provided with resources to support reading at home. This focus on reading fosters a love for literature and curiosity about the world among older pupils.
The school's strong values help pupils develop into responsible citizens who understand fairness and safety. The experiences offered at the school broaden pupils' interests and enhance their enjoyment of school life. Staff collaboration is strong, with leaders providing ample training opportunities. The governing body holds leaders accountable for their actions, ensuring the school remains focused on its educational mission.
The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there is room for improvement in how teachers check for understanding during lessons to prevent misconceptions from affecting pupils' learning. Overall, Hemingford Grey Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
