Felsted Primary School, located in Dunmow, Essex, was inspected on 31 October and 1 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a strong educational environment for its pupils. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all assessed as good. The school had previously received an outstanding rating during its last inspection, which took place twelve years ago. This recent inspection reflects the current educational framework and acknowledges any changes that may have occurred since the last evaluation.
Pupils at Felsted Primary School are described as polite, friendly, and helpful, fostering positive relationships with staff. They receive support in both their academic pursuits and social interactions, demonstrating acceptance of diversity among their peers. In the classroom, students exhibit good behaviour and focus on their learning, showing enthusiasm for the subjects they study. However, it was noted that outside of lesson times, some pupils do not consistently meet the high behavioural expectations set by the school.
The curriculum at Felsted is broad and engaging, allowing pupils to achieve well and prepare for secondary education. A variety of extracurricular clubs are available, including sports, choir, and cross-stitch, which help students explore new interests and develop skills. Leadership opportunities are also provided, such as participation in the school parliament and roles as play leaders and reading ambassadors, which promote independence and confidence among students.
The school has implemented a comprehensive curriculum that builds on prior knowledge and reinforces key concepts, ensuring that pupils retain important information. While subjects are generally taught well, there are a few areas where the implementation of newer curriculum plans has not yet reached its full potential. Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide necessary support, enabling effective progress across most subjects. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, allowing them to thrive academically.
Reading is a priority at Felsted, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Teachers are well-trained in phonics and reading instruction, and they select appropriate texts that align with the sounds pupils are learning. This approach, combined with parental involvement, enhances pupils' reading skills and broadens their knowledge through access to diverse texts in class libraries and the new school library.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behaviour, with a focus on creating a positive learning environment. Lunchtime activities are designed to engage students and promote interaction among different age groups. However, there are inconsistencies in behaviour expectations during unstructured times, leading to some pupils displaying inappropriate behaviours.
Felsted Primary School offers a wide range of opportunities for pupils, including educational trips and community involvement, which help them develop as responsible citizens. The school is committed to staff well-being, fostering an open-door culture that encourages feedback and professional development. Governors are actively involved in supporting school improvement.
The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the school needs to ensure that the newer curriculum subjects are taught to the same high standard as established subjects and that behaviour expectations are consistently upheld throughout the school day. Overall, Felsted Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, preparing them for future educational success.
