Nettlestone Primary School, located on the Isle of Wight, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 11 and 12, 2024. The school is recognized for its effective quality of education, positive behavior and attitudes, and outstanding personal development. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, also received a good rating. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good, reflecting its consistent performance.
Pupils at Nettlestone Primary School value the school’s core principles, referred to as ‘mission possibles,’ which emphasize essential life skills such as respect, resilience, and healthy decision-making. These principles are integrated into all aspects of school life, fostering a positive environment where pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys. The school is characterized by a caring atmosphere, with strong, respectful relationships between staff and students, contributing to a sense of safety and support for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The curriculum at Nettlestone is ambitious and well-structured, tailored to the unique context of the island. Staff engage pupils through interesting trips and activities that enhance their learning experiences. The school has identified key knowledge areas for pupils from Year 1 onwards, although there is still work to be done in developing the early years curriculum. Teaching is effective, with staff demonstrating strong subject knowledge and providing clear explanations to prevent misconceptions. However, there are instances where understanding is not checked thoroughly, leading to variability in pupils’ recall in certain subjects.
Reading is prioritized and taught effectively, with staff well-trained in phonics instruction. From the pre-school stage, children engage with sounds through nursery rhymes and stories, progressing to daily phonics lessons in Reception. This systematic approach ensures that pupils develop into fluent readers, enjoying a variety of texts and demonstrating comprehension skills.
The school sets high expectations for pupils with special educational needs, employing clear strategies to identify and support these students. Teachers adapt tasks to ensure that all pupils can access the same curriculum, facilitating their progress. Behavior expectations are also high, with pupils displaying politeness and good manners, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Attendance rates are generally in line with national figures, and the school actively promotes good attendance through collaboration with families.
Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with a focus on learning beyond academics. Pupils are taught financial management, mindfulness strategies, and the importance of healthy eating. Initiatives like the ‘Respect Squad’ empower students to voice concerns, fostering a culture of safety and respect. The curriculum includes education on different faiths and religions, enhancing pupils’ understanding of diversity and preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Leadership at Nettlestone is collaborative, with effective training and support for staff. Governors play a vital role in providing oversight and challenge, while parents appreciate the care and communication from the school. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that teachers consistently check pupils’ understanding and address gaps in knowledge. Additionally, the early years curriculum requires further development to support children in building knowledge and skills effectively over time. Overall, Nettlestone Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering the personal development of its pupils.
