Norton Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 24, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and engaging learning environment where pupils express enthusiasm for their education. Teachers are committed to making learning enjoyable and relevant, which fosters a strong attitude towards various activities. The high expectations set by leaders and staff contribute to the quality of work produced by the pupils, who take pride in their school and understand its vision, integrating it into their daily lives.
Pupils demonstrate politeness and courtesy towards one another, creating a culture of kindness and inclusivity. The school environment is supportive, with pupils feeling safe and knowing whom to approach if they have concerns. Positive relationships among staff, pupils, and parents are evident, contributing to a familial atmosphere within the school. The school provides numerous opportunities for personal and academic development, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support.
The leadership team and governors are ambitious for the pupils, having established a well-structured curriculum that ensures a high-quality education. Teachers are well-informed about what to teach and when, allowing for effective lesson planning that promotes knowledge retention. In subjects like science, the curriculum is particularly strong, enabling pupils to recall prior learning and apply their knowledge to complex problems. The art curriculum also provides pupils with exposure to diverse artists, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the subject.
While the curriculum is well-developed in many areas, some subjects require further refinement to ensure that all pupils build a solid foundation for future learning. This gap can hinder the progression of pupils as they advance through the school. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with phonics instruction beginning early in pre-school. However, there are instances where assessments of pupils' phonics knowledge are not acted upon swiftly enough, which can impede the progress of those who struggle with reading.
Pupils engage in a variety of activities that promote their personal development, including educational trips and extracurricular opportunities. Older pupils have the chance to develop leadership skills through roles such as school council members and Commonwealth Games ambassadors. The school prioritizes staff well-being, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders and staff vigilant in ensuring the safety of all children. Regular training equips staff to recognize and respond to potential risks, and leaders actively support families through various resources and partnerships with outside agencies. Pupils feel secure and are educated on how to maintain their safety, including online.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should focus on further developing the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure a coherent sequence of knowledge that supports pupils' learning from the early years onward. Additionally, leaders should ensure that assessments related to phonics are addressed promptly to help struggling pupils become proficient readers. Overall, Norton Church of England Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
