St William’s Primary School, located in Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich, is recognized as a good school following its inspection in February 2020. The school provides a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils, who are described as confident and happy learners. The curriculum is designed to offer a solid academic foundation while also incorporating a variety of experiences that enrich the students' education. The extensive school grounds provide ample opportunities for play and physical activity, with a range of equipment and organized sports activities available during playtime. The school promotes a culture of safety and well-being, ensuring that any instances of bullying are addressed promptly.
The school day begins with a fitness session for Key Stage 2 pupils, which helps energize them for the day ahead. The emphasis on the enjoyment of learning is evident, with the school library playing a central role in students' academic lives. Collaborative learning is encouraged, with pupils often working together on whole-school topics and participating in 'circle' sessions led by older students.
Leadership at St William’s has focused on redeveloping the curriculum over recent years, setting high expectations for pupil achievement. The curriculum is structured to allow in-depth exploration of subjects, with specific days allocated for subjects like religious education and design technology. While the curriculum changes have been beneficial, some areas still require further embedding to ensure consistency across all classes.
The teaching of mathematics is particularly strong, utilizing a consistent approach throughout the school. Practical equipment is used effectively, especially in the early years, to enhance understanding. Recent efforts have concentrated on improving pupils' fluency in basic mathematical facts, with positive results observed. Reading instruction is also a highlight, with a well-organized library and effective phonics teaching that supports early readers. Older pupils benefit from high-quality texts that serve as a foundation for writing instruction.
Personal development is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to embody key learning behaviors such as commitment and curiosity. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities and trips, enriching the educational experience beyond the classroom. Behaviour in classrooms and corridors is generally good, although some pupils struggle with focus and may require additional support. Staff are attentive to these needs, ensuring that all pupils can engage in their learning.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training for staff and clear procedures in place to support pupils and families. The governing body is well-informed about safeguarding responsibilities and ensures that policies are effectively implemented.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that the new curriculum is fully embedded across all classes and that teachers are confident in delivering it. There is also a need to enhance pupils' retention and application of subject-specific vocabulary. Additionally, maintaining high expectations for behaviour and minimizing distractions during lessons will be crucial for fostering an optimal learning environment. Overall, St William’s Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future growth and improvement.
