Newport Church of England Aided Primary School, located in Newport on the Isle of Wight, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on February 28 and March 1, 2023. The school was rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school fosters a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Children in the early years demonstrate kindness and cooperation, while older students take pride in their leadership roles, such as sports captains and librarians. The school promotes appreciation of local heritage through visits to significant sites, enhancing pupils' connection to their community.
Playtimes are lively and enjoyable, with students engaging in physical activities like using the outdoor gym and climbing wall. Pupils are encouraged to make healthy food choices and understand the importance of nutrition and physical activity. The school has established a culture where unkind behavior is not tolerated, and pupils trust that staff will address any issues promptly. After-school activities, including singing, crafts, and sports clubs, are well-received, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. The school emphasizes equality and diversity, with pupils expressing their understanding of fairness and respect for differences.
Leaders at the school have high aspirations for pupil achievement and have developed a dynamic curriculum across all subjects. They have clearly outlined learning objectives for each class, ensuring that pupils are aware of what they need to learn. Early years children benefit from a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and creativity, although there are instances where some pupils may become distracted. Teachers occasionally miss opportunities to assess and address gaps in knowledge, which can hinder learning.
Pupils demonstrate a positive attitude towards their education, attending school regularly and responding well to behavioral expectations. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their full participation in school life. Teachers utilize a variety of resources to assist these pupils in their learning journey. A strong emphasis is placed on developing a love for reading, with younger children enjoying stories and older pupils actively engaging with the library.
However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in phonics instruction. Some pupils do not progress in their reading as quickly as they could due to inconsistencies in teaching and mismatched reading materials. Leaders are addressing these issues by providing additional training for staff to enhance their phonics instruction. The school also promotes personal development through discussions on current affairs and cultural awareness, encouraging pupils to engage with their community and understand global issues.
Governors are well-informed and actively support the school's vision, providing effective oversight and challenge to ensure quality education. Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders mindful of their workload. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. The school’s curriculum includes essential safety education, ensuring pupils are aware of online and physical safety.
Overall, Newport Church of England Aided Primary School is a well-rounded institution that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in phonics and addressing misconceptions in learning, the school is committed to continuous improvement and fostering a positive educational experience for all its pupils.
