Millfields Primary School and Nursery, located in Nantwich, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 11 and 12, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending. Feedback from students indicates that they feel happy and engaged in their learning, largely due to the efforts of their teachers who make lessons enjoyable. Parents and carers have also praised the school, describing it as a special place with caring staff.
Pupils are aware of the high expectations set by their teachers and strive to meet them. They demonstrate good behavior and respect towards one another, with confidence in the school's leadership to address any bullying incidents effectively. The school fosters a sense of safety among its students, contributing to a supportive atmosphere.
The variety of extracurricular activities available, including gardening, drama, and sports clubs, is well-received by pupils. They appreciate the range of equipment for play during breaks and enjoy educational trips that enhance their learning experiences. These activities help students develop a sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to the school community and local charities.
Teachers at Millfields are building on previous work to address the learning gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. They have adapted the curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge is revisited, helping pupils solidify their understanding and prepare for future learning stages. Students have reported that repetition in subjects like mathematics aids their retention of information.
The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum that begins in the early years, ensuring a solid foundation for students. Teachers effectively organize lessons to build on prior knowledge, leading to good academic achievement. However, there are a few subjects where the leadership has not clearly defined the key knowledge that students should learn, which may result in gaps in their education over time.
Reading has been prioritized by the school, with improvements made to the library and the introduction of reading dens to encourage a love for reading. Pupils enjoy a diverse selection of books and are matched with reading materials that align with their phonetic knowledge. Teachers are proactive in identifying students who struggle with reading and provide necessary support to help them become confident readers.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they require to access the curriculum. Well-trained teaching assistants play a crucial role in providing additional help, focusing on building students' confidence and perseverance.
Diversity is integrated into the curriculum, promoting respect and understanding among pupils regarding differences in modern Britain. The governing body is actively involved, holding school leaders accountable and providing support during challenging times, such as the pandemic.
Staff members report high job satisfaction, noting that leaders consider their workload and well-being, fostering a family-like atmosphere within the team. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Staff receive regular training and are equipped to identify and address any concerns promptly.
Overall, while Millfields Primary School and Nursery excels in many areas, there is a need for refinement in the curriculum structure for certain subjects to ensure that all pupils acquire the essential knowledge required for their educational journey.
