Coton Church of England Primary School, located in Coton, Cambridge, was inspected on 14 and 15 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school is rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also falling into the same category. However, the school demonstrates good performance in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The early years provision is noted as requiring improvement. This inspection marks the first graded evaluation since the school was last assessed as outstanding 15 years ago.
The school community prides itself on its caring environment, where pupils express enjoyment in attending school and adhere to the school's values of care, challenge, courage, creativity, and cooperation. High expectations for behavior are evident, and pupils respond positively, taking pride in their learning and feeling safe and supported by the staff. While pupils enjoy their lessons and find them appropriately challenging, there is a lack of clarity regarding achievement in areas outside reading and mathematics.
Leaders have made strides in reviewing and implementing a comprehensive curriculum across all subjects, focusing particularly on reading and mathematics. However, the wider curriculum is still under development, and the school has not effectively monitored pupil achievement across all subjects. Staff have received quality training to deliver the revised curriculum, especially in core subjects, ensuring that pupils' understanding is solid before progressing to new material. Reading is prioritized, with a new phonics approach positively impacting pupils' reading skills.
In the early years, children have adapted well to school life, benefiting from strong relationships and a focus on language and communication development. However, the curriculum does not consistently provide the breadth of learning opportunities necessary for full preparation for Year 1. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities achieve well by the end of key stage 2, thanks to staff's understanding of their needs and effective support mechanisms.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with low-level disruption being addressed promptly. Attendance rates are improving, and the school actively engages with families to emphasize the importance of regular attendance. Personal development is fostered through various extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to develop essential life skills and leadership qualities.
Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders demonstrating care for their well-being. The governing body has a solid grasp of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing both challenge and support to the leadership team. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve, the school must focus on the implementation of the new curriculum, particularly in subjects beyond reading and mathematics. It is essential for leaders to conduct thorough checks on pupil achievement across the wider curriculum to ensure consistent progress. Additionally, the early years curriculum needs enhancement to provide children with comprehensive learning experiences that prepare them adequately for the next stage of their education. Overall, while the school has made significant improvements, ongoing efforts are necessary to achieve the desired standards across all areas of the curriculum.
