The Elton CofE Primary School, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, has received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on July 3 and 4, 2024. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision. The personal development aspect of the school has been rated as outstanding, highlighting the school's commitment to fostering personal growth among its pupils.
Pupils at Elton CofE Primary School thrive in an environment that promotes impressive personal qualities. The school’s excellent personal development program begins in the early years, teaching pupils about essential human attributes such as humility and bravery. By the end of Year 6, students are well-prepared for leadership roles, contributing significantly to their community, including fundraising for chosen charities. The school fosters a culture of care and empathy, where pupils support one another during difficult times and celebrate each other's successes in various settings, including lessons and sporting events.
The curriculum at the school has seen notable improvements since the last inspection. Subject plans provide clear guidance for staff on the knowledge to be taught and when, ensuring that pupils retain key information. Teachers are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, effectively checking pupils' understanding and providing timely support when needed. The school has implemented a new approach to teaching reading, with staff ensuring that children develop their spoken language and vocabulary from an early age. This foundation prepares pupils to read fluently as they progress through the school.
The school has made significant strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). With assistance from the local authority, the school identifies and addresses the specific needs of these pupils. Most staff utilize this information effectively, arranging learning activities that meet the needs of pupils with SEND. However, there are instances where adaptations are insufficient, leading to some pupils not learning as well as they could.
Emotional regulation and behaviour management are prioritized from an early age, with high-quality pastoral care provided for pupils who struggle with their emotions. This support helps pupils learn to manage frustration and maintain appropriate behaviour. The school promotes a serious attitude towards learning, with pupils demonstrating sustained concentration and hard work in lessons.
The school’s ‘big question’ initiative enriches the curriculum, allowing pupils to explore significant aspects of the human experience. Additionally, the school offers a wide range of opportunities for pupils to develop their interests and talents, including music and sports. Many pupils engage in local and regional competitions, learning valuable lessons about winning and losing gracefully.
Feedback from parents, staff, and pupils is overwhelmingly positive, with staff expressing satisfaction with their work environment and the support they receive from leaders. The governing body has developed the necessary expertise to govern effectively, maintaining an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and weaknesses.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To further improve, the school must ensure that all staff consistently provide effective learning opportunities tailored to the specific needs of pupils with SEND. Overall, Elton CofE Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering personal development among its pupils.
