Thurton Primary School, located in Norwich, has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted on March 10-11, 2015. The school has shown remarkable improvement since its previous inspection, where it was rated as good. The leadership team, comprising the headteacher and assistant headteacher, has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, fostering a culture of high expectations and a commitment to excellence among staff and students alike. The governing body plays a crucial role in the school's success, effectively fulfilling its responsibilities and using its knowledge to guide the school's future.
The quality of teaching at Thurton Primary is consistently good, with many instances of outstanding practice. Teachers provide valuable feedback to pupils, particularly in English and mathematics, helping them to improve their work. However, there is a need for more detailed marking in other subjects to enhance students' understanding of their progress in those areas. The teaching methods employed are engaging and promote positive attitudes towards learning, resulting in pupils who are eager to learn and demonstrate exemplary behavior.
Pupils feel safe and secure in their school environment, a sentiment echoed by staff and parents. The early years provision is particularly strong, with children making excellent progress in their foundational skills. The school has successfully narrowed the achievement gap for disadvantaged pupils, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, make significant progress across various subjects.
The school’s curriculum is broad and enriched, promoting not only academic success but also the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils. The school emphasizes the importance of British values, ensuring that students understand and appreciate their role in modern society. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school's offerings, although there is a recognition that communication with some parents could be improved.
The inspection team gathered evidence through lesson observations, examination of pupils' work, and discussions with various stakeholders, including pupils, staff, and parents. The findings indicate that the school meets the government's floor standards, demonstrating that it provides a high-quality education for its pupils. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, actively seeking ways to enhance communication with parents and refine the marking practices in non-core subjects.
Overall, Thurton Primary School stands out as an exemplary institution, characterized by outstanding leadership, exceptional teaching, and a strong commitment to pupil achievement. The school’s focus on fostering a positive learning environment and promoting the holistic development of its students positions it as a leader in educational excellence within the community. The dedication of the staff, the engagement of the governing body, and the support of parents contribute significantly to the school's success, ensuring that all pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
