All Saints’ CofE Aided Primary School in Peterborough has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 16 and 17, 2024. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and valued. The diverse community is a source of pride for students, who appreciate the opportunity to celebrate various cultures and faiths. This inclusivity promotes mutual respect among pupils, ensuring that everyone feels part of the All Saints’ family.
Pupils are aware that the adults in the school are invested in their success. While there are instances where the activities provided do not fully support their learning ambitions, students consistently demonstrate a strong work ethic and strive to do their best. This dedication contributes to their overall learning and prepares them well for the transition to secondary education. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite, respectful, and engage in lessons without causing disruptions. The school environment is safe, and older students take on responsibilities, such as being playground pals, ensuring younger pupils have companions during playtime.
The school encourages pupils to see themselves as active participants in the global community. They engage with significant global events and have organized charity initiatives to support victims of disasters, such as the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. This involvement helps students develop a sense of social responsibility and awareness of the world around them.
A key strength of the school is its focus on reading. The staff is well-trained in delivering the phonics program, which begins as soon as children enter the school. Pupils learn the sounds of letters and practice with carefully selected books, ensuring they develop strong reading skills. Those who struggle receive additional support to keep pace with their peers, resulting in high levels of fluency and confidence in reading. Older students regularly explore a variety of literature, enhancing their love for reading.
The curriculum is designed with clear expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject experts have thoughtfully organized the knowledge pupils should acquire, facilitating connections between new and existing learning. Teachers provide clear explanations of new concepts. However, there are occasions when the learning activities do not align with the curriculum's aspirations. Some pupils may spend excessive time on basic tasks when they could tackle more complex challenges, which can hinder their depth of understanding.
Teachers are skilled at asking insightful questions, but they do not always assess pupils' understanding effectively. This can lead to gaps in knowledge or misconceptions that are not addressed promptly. Consequently, some pupils may not achieve the level of understanding that is expected.
In the early years, children learn essential concepts and vocabulary effectively. They quickly adapt to learning routines that help them focus on tasks. The staff creates a language-rich environment and ensures that play activities are closely linked to formal learning, preparing children well for the next stage of their education.
Pupils with special educational needs benefit from tailored support that helps them overcome individual barriers to learning. Teachers adapt their methods to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum alongside their peers, and teaching assistants provide additional support to foster independence.
The school has established clear behavior expectations, and consistent modeling by staff helps pupils understand what is required of them. In lessons, pupils listen attentively and concentrate on their tasks. The school also offers a well-rounded program that teaches pupils about safety, different cultures, and healthy relationships, contributing to their personal development.
Extracurricular activities are valued by pupils, who eagerly participate in various clubs, including sports and music. This engagement allows them to explore diverse interests and talents. Staff members express pride in their work environment, feeling respected and supported, which contributes to a positive school culture.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. To improve further, the school should focus on enhancing the design of resources and learning activities to ensure that all pupils can access the curriculum in greater depth. Additionally, teachers should routinely check pupils' understanding to address any gaps in knowledge swiftly. Overall, All Saints’ CofE Aided Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
