William Hildyard Church of England Primary and Nursery School in Market Deeping, Lincolnshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 19 and 20, 2024. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive and express their individuality, encapsulated in the ethos of let their light shine. Students report a positive experience, expressing appreciation for their teachers and a sense of safety within the school environment. The school promotes core values such as forgiveness, respect, and courage, which are integrated into the daily life of the school alongside British values and protected characteristics.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, and students generally meet these expectations. A newly implemented behavior system has provided clear guidelines for both staff and pupils, fostering a culture of readiness, respect, and safety. This consistency has led to focused learning during lessons and a harmonious atmosphere during social interactions. Pupils also benefit from educational trips to local sites such as Lincoln Cathedral and Peterborough Museum, which enhance their classroom learning. Additionally, the school offers various extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, promoting well-rounded development.
The curriculum at William Hildyard is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils demonstrate secure knowledge and can articulate their learning effectively, particularly in subjects like mathematics and history. However, some students struggle to recall information from previous years, indicating a need for improved retention strategies. The early years curriculum is well-structured, ensuring that children develop essential skills in preparation for key stage one.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively model learning, which contributes to pupils' enjoyment of lessons. Reading is prioritized from the Reception year, with children learning to read using books that match their phonetic knowledge. Support is available for those who require additional help, enabling them to catch up with their peers quickly. The school has made strides in identifying and addressing the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. However, there is room for improvement in setting precise targets for these pupils to help them achieve their full potential.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students treating each other with respect and welcoming newcomers. The school has worked diligently to address attendance barriers, resulting in good attendance rates. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, allowing them to develop skills in various roles, such as playtime leaders and sports ambassadors. Recent changes in leadership have focused on improving curriculum sequencing and the consistency of behavior management practices. Staff report feeling supported in their roles, with manageable workloads.
While the school has introduced a robust system for monitoring curriculum impact, it has not yet fully identified strengths and areas for development across all subjects. This limits the school's ability to make informed improvements. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, William Hildyard Church of England Primary and Nursery School continues to provide a good education, with clear pathways for further enhancement in specific areas, particularly regarding the support for pupils with SEND and the evaluation of the curriculum's effectiveness.
