The Ashbeach Primary School in Ramsey St Mary’s, Huntingdon, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on 13 and 14 February 2024. The school demonstrates a positive environment where pupils arrive happily and are greeted warmly by staff, fostering a sense of safety and belonging. The school emphasizes its values of honesty, evolve, aspire, resilience, and teamwork, which are reflected in the pupils' interactions and behavior. The high expectations set by the school motivate pupils to engage actively in lessons, which are designed to be enjoyable and stimulating. This approach has proven effective for all students, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they feel included and celebrated for their achievements.
The curriculum at Ashbeach Primary is ambitious, broad, and balanced, tailored to meet the needs of mixed-age groups. It is structured to build knowledge progressively, with a strong emphasis on reading from the early years. Daily phonics sessions are conducted by skilled adults, and reading materials are well-aligned with the pupils' learning stages. Most pupils achieve fluency in reading by the end of Year 1, and those who struggle receive timely support to help them catch up. Teachers are well-trained and knowledgeable about their subjects, which enhances the quality of education provided. Regular assessments allow teachers to adapt their lessons based on pupils' understanding, contributing to their overall achievement.
In the early years, children engage with high-quality resources and activities that build on their previous experiences, leading to high levels of engagement and concentration. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are fully integrated into school life and receive the necessary support through adapted tasks and trained staff. The behavior curriculum is effectively implemented, promoting a focused learning environment. Staff model expected behaviors, and any issues are addressed promptly and kindly, maintaining a purposeful atmosphere throughout the school.
The school also prioritizes personal development, offering programs that cover relationships, sex education, and personal, social, health, and economics education. While pupils express understanding of various topics, there is a noted gap in their knowledge of fundamental British values such as democracy and the rule of law. Additionally, older pupils feel less confident about their transition to secondary school, indicating a need for more support in preparing them for this next stage.
Leadership at Ashbeach Primary is focused on continuous improvement, with significant progress made in a short time. Positive relationships with parents have been established, contributing to improved attendance and punctuality. Staff report high levels of job satisfaction and appreciate the support for their well-being. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance the personal development curriculum, the school should ensure that all areas, particularly those related to British values and preparing pupils for life in modern Britain, are consistently implemented. This will help build pupils' confidence and character, equipping them for future challenges. Overall, Ashbeach Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational experience, with a clear path for further development in specific areas.
