Faldingworth Community Primary School continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 19, 2023. The school prioritizes the individual needs of all pupils, embedding its core values of fairness and respect into daily activities. This approach fosters a supportive environment where pupils treat each other with kindness. Parents and carers appreciate the school's family-like atmosphere, with one parent describing it as a superb school that feels like an extended family. Older pupils take pride in supporting younger students, particularly during social times as lunchtime monitors.
The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, who demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities benefit from tailored support, ensuring they thrive in their educational journey. The school environment is safe, with pupils aware of whom to approach if they have concerns. Most students exhibit good behavior, and any instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively.
Faldingworth Community Primary School offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for clubs such as the winter well-being club and dance club. The school has made early reading a priority, implementing an effective phonics scheme that supports pupils in their initial reading stages. Staff are well-trained in delivering this program, employing strategies that help pupils read increasingly complex words. Older pupils who require additional reading support receive timely assistance, contributing to their reading fluency.
Pupils engage with a diverse range of high-quality texts across various genres, and younger students particularly enjoy reading. However, some older pupils have expressed a desire for more time dedicated to reading in school to further cultivate their love for literature. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, allowing many pupils to gain in-depth knowledge of the subjects they study. Nonetheless, in certain subjects, the leadership has not clearly defined the essential knowledge pupils should acquire, which can hinder their ability to connect new learning with prior knowledge.
The school has established a systematic approach to assessing pupils' understanding, providing constructive feedback to help them improve. In the early years, staff effectively support vocabulary expansion. The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs, with leaders quickly identifying their needs and adapting teaching methods accordingly. The special educational needs coordinator maintains strong relationships with these pupils and their families, ensuring effective communication and support.
Pupils benefit from personal, social, and health education lessons that teach them about safety and well-being. Many students report that participation in clubs and class council roles has boosted their confidence. Educational trips, such as visits to Rand Farm and Cresswell Crags, enhance their learning experiences. The school actively promotes cultural understanding, exemplified by a recent Chinese New Year lion dance workshop.
Faldingworth Community Primary School is deeply integrated into the local community, frequently inviting community members for various events. Parents value the school's communication and the welcoming nature of the staff. Staff members express strong support for the headteacher and governors, appreciating their consideration of workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established by leaders. Staff receive regular training and promptly report any concerns, ensuring timely action is taken to protect children. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and know they can approach staff with any worries.
To improve, the school should prioritize the reading curriculum in key stage two to enhance older pupils' enthusiasm for reading. Additionally, leaders need to clarify the specific knowledge pupils should learn at each stage of their educational journey to help them connect their learning effectively.
