Newton St Cyres Primary School, located in Exeter, Devon, was inspected on 17 and 18 October 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as personal development and early years provision receiving an outstanding rating. The school has maintained a good standard since its previous inspection in July 2018.
Pupils at Newton St Cyres Primary School demonstrate high standards of behavior, contributing to a calm and secure learning environment. They express happiness and feel safe, leading to high attendance rates. The early years program is particularly strong, with children receiving tailored support that fosters a love of learning from the outset. The school emphasizes the development of responsible and active citizens, with initiatives like the school council managing a healthy tuck shop to fund improvements, such as a new outdoor classroom.
The curriculum is designed with high ambitions for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has effectively structured its curriculum from early years to Year 6, ensuring that essential knowledge is identified and taught in a logical sequence. This approach allows pupils to build on their knowledge over time, particularly evident in subjects like mathematics. However, there are some subjects where the intended knowledge is not always broken down into manageable steps, which can hinder learning.
Reading is a key focus, with a highly effective program in place that helps children develop a love for reading early on. Books are matched to the sounds pupils know, allowing for daily practice that enhances fluency and accuracy. Staff are attentive in checking pupils' understanding and provide additional support for those who struggle. The school also offers a diverse selection of high-quality books that reflect various cultures and experiences.
The school has established strong relationships with parents, who express overwhelming positivity about the staff's commitment to their children's well-being. The personal, social, and health education curriculum reinforces the school's values, promoting discussions on local and global issues with sensitivity and maturity. Pupils are encouraged to debate and understand diversity, tolerance, and respect, leading to a strong grasp of fundamental British values.
Governance at the school is effective, with governors actively involved in ensuring staff well-being and professional development. This support contributes to a motivated staff who take pride in their work and appreciate the backing from school leaders.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects lack clarity in the specific content that pupils are expected to learn and remember, particularly for those with special educational needs. Additionally, while safeguarding arrangements are generally effective, there are minor issues with the clarity and detail of some safeguarding records, which could hinder the identification of patterns or trends.
Overall, Newton St Cyres Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth. The school is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success.
