Kniveton CofE Primary School, located in Kniveton, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, underwent an inspection on March 10 and 11, 2020. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. This inspection marked a significant change from the previous outstanding rating received in December 2006, which was based on an older inspection framework. The current judgment indicates that while the school maintains a good standard, there have been changes in effectiveness over the years.
The school has not been inspected for 14 years, exceeding the five-year maximum interval due to legislative changes in 2011 that exempted outstanding schools from routine inspections. The long gap may have allowed for shifts in school effectiveness. During the inspection, it was noted that pupils are proud to attend Kniveton, often entering lessons with enthusiasm and expressing feelings of safety and support from staff. The relationships between staff and pupils are strong, contributing to a harmonious atmosphere during break times where older pupils engage younger ones in games.
Leaders at the school aim to create memorable experiences for pupils, organizing trips that enhance learning, such as visits to Carsington Water and Chatsworth House. While the school has a commendable reading curriculum, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is consistently well-planned across all subjects. The inspection highlighted that while reading is prioritized, some pupils in the Reception Year struggle with phonics instruction, which affects their early reading development.
Mathematics instruction is well-structured, with lessons building on prior knowledge, leading to good achievement in this subject. However, the curriculums for design and technology and computing require further refinement to ensure that pupils build on their existing knowledge effectively. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is strong, with tailored plans and effective adaptations in lessons.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior, showing respect and friendliness. They engage in activities that promote kindness and celebrate their achievements through various reward systems. The school emphasizes the importance of understanding different cultures and global issues, fostering a sense of community and awareness among pupils.
Governance at the school is characterized by a committed team that is developing a deeper understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. However, there is a need for governors to enhance their oversight of leadership actions to ensure effective accountability.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff being vigilant and responsive to any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, and have access to trusted adults for support.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is coherently planned and taught across all subjects, particularly in design and technology and computing. Additionally, staff training in phonics should be strengthened to enhance early reading instruction. Governors should also increase their scrutiny of leadership actions to better support school improvement efforts. Overall, Kniveton CofE Primary School provides a nurturing environment for its pupils, with a clear commitment to their educational and personal development.