Nursling Church of England Primary School, located in Southampton, Hampshire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, achieving a rating of good in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection conducted from October 7 to 9, 2019, highlighted significant improvements since the previous inspection, where the school was rated as requiring improvement.
Pupils at Nursling Primary demonstrate a strong enthusiasm for learning and engage actively in their tasks. The school environment is characterized by calm and purposeful behavior, with students expressing enjoyment in attending school. The staff at Nursling are dedicated to fostering both academic and social development, instilling values of love, hope, and courage throughout the school community. Strong relationships between staff and pupils are evident, with expectations set high for students to be brave in their learning endeavors. The school mascot, Cyril the Squirrel, serves as a reminder for pupils to be ready to learn and resilient in the face of challenges.
Safety is a priority at Nursling Primary, with pupils reporting that they feel secure and trust adults to address any issues that may arise. The school teaches students about safety in various contexts, including road safety and online safety. Pupils also enjoy a range of extracurricular activities, such as learning musical instruments and participating in sports events, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
The leadership at Nursling is effective, with a clear vision for a broad and high-quality curriculum. Leaders have meticulously planned what pupils should learn across subjects, although there remains a gap in attainment in reading and mathematics compared to other primary schools. Teachers are well-trained and knowledgeable, providing clear explanations and fostering investigative skills in subjects like science. However, there is a need for more precise support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities to ensure they reach their full potential.
Reading is a central focus at Nursling, with a strong phonics program in place. Teachers are attentive to students' progress, quickly identifying those who may need additional support. The school promotes a love for reading, with early years pupils creating a reading hut to share books with one another. High-quality texts are integrated into lessons, linking subjects and enhancing learning experiences.
The behavior policy is well understood by pupils, contributing to a productive learning environment. Leaders prioritize pupils' well-being and social development, organizing workshops to promote mental health awareness. While pupils demonstrate a good understanding of equalities, there is room for improvement in their cultural awareness, particularly regarding other faiths.
Staff morale is high, with a strong sense of respect for leadership and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for pupils. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with well-trained staff and meticulous record-keeping ensuring a culture of shared concerns.
To further improve, leaders need to monitor the implementation of the new curriculum to ensure that pupils make strong progress. Additionally, there is a need for a more accurate understanding of the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring tailored support is provided. The curriculum should also be enhanced to foster a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and faiths, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. Overall, Nursling Church of England Primary School is making commendable strides in providing a quality education while addressing areas for growth.
