Huntley Church of England Primary School, located in Gloucester, has recently undergone an inspection on July 11 and 12, 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. This marks a change from its previous Outstanding rating from 12 years ago, reflecting the evolving educational landscape and the current inspection framework. The school has been exempt from routine inspections since November 2020, leading to a longer gap between evaluations.
Pupils at Huntley are reported to be happy and safe, enjoying their learning experiences. The school promotes values such as respect, courage, and perseverance, which pupils understand well. They express enthusiasm for various aspects of school life, including caring for the school's pets. High expectations from school leaders encourage most pupils to strive for their best, fostering a respectful environment where differences are acknowledged and valued. Parents and carers express confidence in the school's ability to support their children and address any issues of unkind behavior promptly.
The school offers a high-quality program that supports pupils' broader development, providing opportunities for them to explore their interests and talents. Activities such as forest school and wildlife garden experiences are particularly appreciated. Pupils also engage in community service, such as litter-picking and participating in the eco-committee, which enhances their sense of responsibility and connection to the local area. Events like Founders' Day foster a sense of community within the school.
Leadership at Huntley is characterized by a clear and ambitious vision for education and personal development. Governors play a reflective role, offering appropriate challenge and support to school leaders. The curriculum is broad, with leaders identifying key knowledge for most subjects, allowing pupils to build detailed understanding over time. For example, in mathematics, pupils progress from early number concepts to multiplication tables. However, there are areas where the curriculum lacks clarity regarding essential knowledge and vocabulary, particularly for younger pupils, which can hinder vocabulary development.
Teachers possess the necessary subject knowledge to deliver the curriculum effectively and are adept at checking pupils' understanding and addressing misconceptions. The school provides tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the curriculum successfully. Reading is a priority, with pupils learning phonics from the start and engaging with carefully selected texts that match their reading levels. This approach fosters a love for reading, with pupils eager to recommend books to one another.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior, following routines and showing respect to adults and peers. They learn to be active citizens through participation in school council elections and discussions about democracy. The personal, social, and health education curriculum equips pupils with an understanding of healthy relationships and online safety, preparing them for future challenges. Staff training is effective, enhancing teachers' subject knowledge and teaching practices while supporting their well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach if they have worries. Leaders ensure appropriate checks on adults working in the school and have policies in place to manage instances of harmful behavior.
To improve, the school needs to clarify the crucial knowledge and vocabulary required in some subjects to ensure all pupils achieve a similar depth of understanding. This will help enhance the overall educational experience and prepare pupils for future learning.