Houghton Primary School, located in Houghton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 22 and 23, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel a sense of belonging akin to an extended family. Relationships between pupils and staff are strong, with older students actively supporting younger ones. High expectations for behavior are clearly communicated and understood by all pupils, who consistently demonstrate these standards in their conduct.
The curriculum at Houghton Primary is engaging and well-planned, encouraging a thirst for knowledge among pupils. Parents appreciate the enthusiasm their children exhibit for learning, with many expressing that their children eagerly anticipate school each day. Pupils feel safe and happy, with a clear understanding of bullying and confidence that it is addressed swiftly when it occurs. The school offers a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to represent the school in various fixtures and participate in events like the annual Young Voices concert.
Leaders at Houghton Primary have designed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is structured to build knowledge progressively from early years through to Year 6. Teachers benefit from support from subject specialists, enhancing their understanding and ability to deliver the curriculum effectively. Most teachers provide clear model answers to help pupils break down complex tasks, which aids in securing their learning and linking new concepts to prior knowledge. However, there are instances where pupils struggle to manage tasks independently, leading to disengagement and gaps in knowledge.
Assessment practices have been implemented to gather information on pupil understanding, allowing teachers to identify knowledge gaps and plan future learning accordingly. While many teachers effectively use assessment data, some do not check pupils' work promptly enough, which can hinder progress and lead to misconceptions. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a phonics program that supports early development and ensures pupils become fluent and confident readers.
Pupils with special educational needs receive well-considered support, with adaptations made to the curriculum and teaching methods to facilitate their progress. The school environment promotes good behavior, with few incidents disrupting learning. The early years provision is ambitious and stimulating, preparing children well for their transition to Year 1.
Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as participating in the school council and acting as reading buddies for younger students. These roles foster a sense of community and highlight the importance of contributing positively to society. Staff collaboration is evident, with a supportive leadership team that considers staff workload, resulting in a proud and dedicated workforce.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff understand their responsibilities, and concerns are reported and addressed promptly. Governors play an active role in supporting leaders to maintain effective policies and practices.
While Houghton Primary School is performing well, there are areas for improvement. Teachers need to provide clearer explanations of the knowledge required for tasks and ensure that assessment strategies are used effectively to inform instruction. By addressing these areas, the school can continue to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
