Hardwick and Cambourne Community Primary School, located in Cambridge, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 16 and 17, 2021. The school is appreciated by pupils who express their enjoyment of attending, citing the supportive and kind nature of the staff. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach for help, fostering strong relationships built on mutual respect. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in a calm and focused learning environment where pupils engage attentively in lessons.
The school effectively addresses bullying, with pupils reporting that it is infrequent and managed well by staff. The inclusive atmosphere allows pupils of various ages to interact positively during playtime. The curriculum is broad, with a strong emphasis on reading. Pupils have numerous opportunities to explore different genres and enjoy storytime with adults. Special activities, referred to as golden afternoons, provide pupils with unique experiences, such as learning Japanese and participating in gardening, which they find exciting.
The school operates across two sites, Hardwick and Cambourne, ensuring that all pupils receive the same high-quality care and educational opportunities. Leadership at the school has successfully unified the two sites into a cohesive community, creating a warm and friendly environment conducive to learning. Parents and staff view the school as a safe and happy place for children.
Leaders are committed to fostering a love for reading from the early years, implementing daily phonics lessons in Reception. They have established clear guidelines for the letters and sounds pupils need to learn, providing additional support for those who struggle. This structured approach enables pupils to read fluently and confidently.
The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to develop skills progressively. For instance, in art, pupils enhance their shading techniques over time, culminating in high-quality work by Year 6. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum implementation is still in progress, leading to some gaps in knowledge compared to other areas.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior throughout the school, contributing to a productive learning atmosphere. The school ensures that pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, allowing them to thrive alongside their peers. A variety of extracurricular clubs and activities are available, promoting understanding and respect for diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, supported by regular training from school leaders and the local authority. Staff express pride in their work environment, and leaders are mindful of their workload when introducing new initiatives. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, reflecting on their practices to enhance governance.
The school's safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address local risks. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to ensure pupils receive necessary support. The school conducts thorough checks on new staff to maintain a safe environment.
To further improve, the school should expedite the implementation of curriculum plans in the few remaining subjects to ensure all areas provide a rich and detailed knowledge base for pupils. Overall, Hardwick and Cambourne Community Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment.
