Blisworth Community Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 27 and 28, 2022. The school is dedicated to creating a happy and welcoming environment for its pupils, ensuring they feel safe and supported. Staff members are proactive in addressing any concerns, and pupils report that bullying is rare, with swift action taken when issues arise. The school places a strong emphasis on sports, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage in various athletic activities, which fosters a sense of pride and motivation among pupils to excel in all areas of their education.
Students express enthusiasm for their learning experiences, particularly in art and writing, where they strive for high standards. The school community has embraced new values centered around integrity, curiosity, courage, perseverance, collaboration, and community. These values encourage students to be responsible and caring citizens, with a focus on environmental awareness and the use of recycled materials.
Parents hold the school in high regard, often stating that they could not wish for a better educational environment for their children. The leadership team has prioritized fostering a love of reading, integrating exciting and diverse texts into the curriculum. Daily reading sessions led by teachers captivate students, who also enjoy independent reading in cozy lounges. The phonics program is well-structured, providing a strong foundation for early readers, although some older pupils still face challenges in applying their phonics knowledge effectively.
In recent years, the school has undergone a comprehensive curriculum revision, aiming to create an ambitious educational framework that aligns with its core values. Subject leaders have clearly defined learning objectives across all subjects, although the implementation of the new curriculum varies in effectiveness. Teachers are committed to building on prior knowledge and addressing misunderstandings, enabling pupils to make strong connections in their learning.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support in lessons. However, there are instances where the curriculum is not sufficiently adapted to meet the specific needs of these students, which can hinder their progress. Positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a calm and focused learning environment, with staff providing nurturing support for those facing social and emotional challenges.
Pupils have access to a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs that help them develop their talents. The school is gradually reintroducing trips and experiences that were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, with recent outings helping students appreciate their local community. Leaders encourage pupil involvement in decision-making through initiatives like the curriculum committee, which gathers feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Staff members express pride in being part of the school and appreciate the support they receive from leadership regarding their well-being and workload. Governors are actively engaged, providing effective oversight and support to the school's leadership team. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Leaders have established effective systems for identifying and addressing safeguarding concerns, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe.
To enhance its educational offerings, the school must further define the component knowledge in certain subjects and ensure that the curriculum is consistently adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs. Additionally, older pupils require more targeted support to address gaps in their phonics knowledge, ensuring they have access to appropriately matched reading materials. Overall, Blisworth Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
