Newbold Verdon Primary School, located in Leicester, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection, conducted on the 1st and 2nd of May 2024, highlighted several strengths across various aspects of the school. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. The school has maintained this level of performance since its previous inspection in March 2022.
Pupils at Newbold Verdon Primary School express enjoyment in their learning experiences, eagerly anticipating new lessons each day. The school fosters a culture of high expectations, encouraging students to strive for excellence. The motto, We inspire our dragons to fly higher, encapsulates the school's commitment to motivating students. Positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a supportive learning environment, where the three core rules of being ready, respectful, and safe are well understood and practiced.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, with many demonstrating politeness and respect. They take pride in their achievements and are motivated by the school's reward system, which includes earning 'dragon points' for positive behavior and learning. The weekly competition among the four houses adds an element of excitement and community spirit. Additionally, all pupils benefit from participation in forest school activities, which promote independence and resilience while allowing them to learn from nature. The school also offers various clubs that encourage pupils to engage as active citizens, including fundraising for charity and supporting local events.
Parents and carers generally hold positive views about the school, expressing satisfaction with the support and education their children receive. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, starting from the pre-school level, where children are introduced to stories and rhymes. This foundational approach helps pupils develop essential literacy skills early on. The curriculum is broad and well-structured, ensuring that pupils build on their prior knowledge effectively. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils have secured the necessary prior learning to support their understanding of new concepts.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, particularly in core subjects, and employ effective modeling techniques to enhance pupil understanding. While the school has made necessary adjustments to the curriculum, there are instances where assessment and feedback do not consistently address gaps in knowledge or support pupil improvement. Opportunities for extending learning are sometimes overlooked, which can hinder the progress of some pupils.
In the early years, children benefit from a well-designed environment that supports their development across all learning areas. The outdoor space is utilized effectively to promote physical development and understanding of the world. The school also has a designated specialist unit for pupils with specific additional needs, providing tailored support that fosters independence and communication skills.
Pupils develop a solid understanding of British values and learn about safety and various career options through initiatives like careers day. While the school promotes inclusivity, there is a need for a deeper understanding of different faiths among some pupils to enhance their appreciation of diversity in modern Britain. Attendance is generally good, with effective measures in place to support improvement when needed.
Governors play an active role in challenging and supporting school leaders, contributing to a positive working environment for staff. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, Newbold Verdon Primary School is a thriving educational institution that provides a solid foundation for its pupils while identifying areas for further growth and development.
