Newnham St Peter’s Church of England Primary School in Gloucestershire has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education and demonstrate good attendance. The leadership has fostered an inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and cared for. The school community embodies its vision of cherishing everyone, flourishing together, and serving others. Pupils exhibit respectful behavior and strong relationships with adults, contributing to a supportive school culture. They report that bullying is infrequent and know whom to approach with concerns.
Pupils display positive attitudes towards learning, driven by high expectations set by leaders and staff. They engage well in lessons, and teachers effectively manage distractions to maintain focus. The school’s values, including respect and forgiveness, are well understood by pupils, who actively demonstrate these in their interactions. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as playground and worship leaders, are valued by pupils, enhancing their sense of responsibility and community involvement.
Since the last inspection, the school has undergone significant leadership and staffing changes, resulting in stable governance. Parents appreciate the new leadership's communication and commitment to high standards for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum has been developed, particularly in core subjects, leading to improved pupil progress. Reading is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to read daily, fostering a love for books and enhancing their literacy skills. The consistent approach to phonics teaching supports early reading and writing development, ensuring that pupils achieve fluency by Year 2.
The curriculum is well-structured in most subjects, allowing pupils to apply their knowledge effectively. In mathematics, pupils tackle complex problems, while in physical education, leaders emphasize essential knowledge for achieving curriculum goals. However, some subjects lack clarity regarding the specific knowledge pupils need to acquire, hindering their ability to build on previous learning. Additionally, some subject leaders are new to their roles and may require further support to effectively guide teachers in delivering the curriculum.
Early years provision is strong, with staff providing opportunities for language development and preparing children for transition into Reception. Positive relationships with children and parents contribute to a supportive learning environment. Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, with clear targets set to facilitate their learning.
The school places a strong emphasis on pupil well-being, with initiatives such as well-being ambassadors to support peers. Pupils enjoy participating in extracurricular activities, including competitions and educational visits, which enrich their learning experiences. Staff feel valued and supported by leaders, who prioritize reducing workload and enhancing job satisfaction.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of vigilance established throughout the school. Staff receive regular training, and leaders maintain robust records of concerns. Collaboration with external agencies ensures that families in need receive appropriate support. Pupils feel safe and are educated on online safety.
To improve further, the school needs to clarify the precise knowledge required in certain subjects to enhance pupils' long-term retention of information. Additionally, developing the expertise of new subject leaders will be essential for effective curriculum delivery. Overall, Newnham St Peter’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for all pupils.
