The Newton Community Primary School in Eltisley, St Neots, Cambridgeshire, was inspected on 26 and 27 September 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained this standard since its previous inspection in November 2021. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils thrive in this small school environment, which fosters a family-like atmosphere. From the early years, children are encouraged to play and learn together, building strong relationships with adults and peers. This supportive environment allows pupils to feel safe and confident, enabling them to take risks in their learning. Teachers have high expectations for their students, and pupils are taught to listen carefully and concentrate on their tasks.
The school promotes a calm atmosphere, where older and younger pupils interact positively during lunchtime and break times. Pupils engage in various activities, including imaginative games and sports, and they have access to clubs that enhance their skills, such as table tennis and choir. The school also offers breakfast clubs, which help pupils start their day in a relaxed manner.
Leaders have thoughtfully developed the curriculum to ensure that pupils can build on their learning over time. Recent changes have been made to some subjects, with curriculum plans now clearly outlining essential learning objectives. Teachers effectively introduce new concepts and provide opportunities for independent practice. They also offer additional support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students can participate in lessons.
In subjects where the curriculum is well established, teachers regularly review and reinforce prior learning, helping pupils achieve strong outcomes. However, in some areas where the curriculum is still developing, there are challenges in assessing what pupils already know, which can hinder their progress. The school is working to improve assessment systems, particularly for pupils with special educational needs, to better identify effective practices and areas needing improvement.
In the early years, a strong emphasis is placed on language development through songs and rhymes, and children begin learning to read immediately. Regular assessments help identify pupils who require additional support, ensuring they receive timely interventions. Older pupils enjoy a diverse range of reading materials, and the school fosters a love of reading through high-quality literature shared in class.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with teachers promoting a positive learning environment. Adults guide children in developing social skills, such as taking turns and playing kindly. The school provides additional support for those few pupils who may struggle with behaviour, ensuring that all students can contribute to classroom discussions.
Pupils are encouraged to engage with their community through various initiatives, such as collecting items for local food banks and learning about different cultures and religions. This helps them develop respect for diversity and fosters a sense of belonging.
Following a period of change, staff and parents express confidence in the leadership of the school. The governing body is actively involved and knowledgeable about the school’s operations. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation and evaluation of new curriculum plans. The school is committed to addressing these challenges to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
