Little Gaddesden Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, located in Hertfordshire, underwent an inspection on October 1 and 2, 2024. The school has been rated as good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Previously, the school was rated outstanding in its last inspection in March 2014, and it had been exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to its high performance.
Pupils at Little Gaddesden appreciate the close-knit community atmosphere, where everyone knows each other, contributing to a sense of safety and happiness. Older students take on responsibilities by looking after younger children during lunchtime, fostering a supportive environment. The school emphasizes high expectations for student achievement across various subjects, and pupils engage in enriching experiences through frequent educational trips and events. For instance, after a workshop on the story of Easter, students demonstrated their understanding by recalling significant details, such as the importance of the Garden of Gethsemane.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with a calm and positive atmosphere that allows for uninterrupted learning. Students exhibit politeness and respect towards one another, engaging in thoughtful debates on various topics while maintaining courtesy. The school offers a variety of before- and after-school clubs, which students find beneficial for enhancing their energy and punctuality.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to develop a deep understanding of subjects like history. However, there are instances where teachers may lack the specific subject knowledge needed to fully implement the curriculum, which can hinder some students from deepening their understanding. In early years, children are introduced to a rich vocabulary and are encouraged to think critically, applying their knowledge in practical activities.
Reading is a priority at the school, with effective phonics instruction in place. While there are occasional gaps in practice opportunities for students, teachers quickly identify those who need additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary help to keep pace with their peers. The school is dedicated to fostering a love of reading among older pupils through the selection of high-quality texts.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same curriculum as their peers, with appropriate adaptations made to support individual learning needs. Overall, students are confident and engaged, demonstrating focus and independence in their learning.
Attendance is closely monitored, and the school takes prompt action to address any issues, resulting in high attendance rates and minimal persistent absence. The school effectively promotes personal development, offering leadership opportunities for all pupils, such as buddy systems for younger students and ambassador roles for older students. Pupils learn about democracy through initiatives like the Pupil Parliament and participate in memorable trips that enhance their educational experience.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the school, ensuring that staff are supported in managing their workload. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all students. The inspection concluded that while the school performs well, there is room for improvement in ensuring that all teachers possess the necessary subject expertise to deliver the curriculum effectively.
