Vernon Terrace Primary School in Northampton has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating across various aspects of its operations. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils are well cared for and supported in their learning journeys. Leaders at the school have high expectations for students, encouraging them to become enthusiastic learners who think critically and confidently. The diverse community within the school is celebrated, with students embracing their differences and ensuring that everyone feels included, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students taking pride in their achievements and participating actively in school assemblies. They understand the school's behavioral expectations and reflect on their actions, supporting peers who may need additional help. The pupil leadership team plays a vital role in fostering discussions on various issues, contributing positively to the school environment and informing leadership decisions.
The school prioritizes teaching reading, implementing a well-structured phonics program that is consistently delivered by trained staff. This approach has proven effective, as pupils are able to recall sounds and apply them to more challenging texts. However, the broader reading curriculum lacks a clear sequence, which could hinder the development of pupils' reading skills over time. While the overall curriculum is well-planned and builds on prior knowledge, some subjects have not yet been fully implemented, resulting in gaps in pupils' learning experiences.
The provision for students with special educational needs is a notable strength of the school. The special educational needs coordinator ensures that staff are well-informed about the needs of these pupils, allowing for tailored support. The integration of pupils with hearing impairments into the school community is also commendable, with British Sign Language being widely used and understood.
In the early years, children are well-supported and engaged in their learning, with a curriculum that is thoughtfully designed to promote incremental development. Teachers regularly assess children's progress and adapt their teaching methods to ensure that all children are making strides in their learning.
Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, with a comprehensive personal, social, and health education curriculum that addresses relevant themes and issues. The school emphasizes fundamental British values, ensuring that all pupils participate in extracurricular activities over time.
Leadership at Vernon Terrace has seen significant improvements in a short period. Senior leaders utilize a range of information to identify areas for development and have successfully implemented a curriculum that meets the needs of the students. They have fostered a cohesive team of staff who share a common vision for the school, resulting in improved behavior and a supportive learning environment.
Governors are actively involved and committed to the school's success, providing effective challenge and support to the leadership team. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with procedures in place to ensure that all concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. Pupils feel safe and know they can approach any staff member with worries or concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The reading curriculum needs to be fully sequenced to clarify expectations for pupils at each stage. Additionally, some parts of the curriculum require further embedding to ensure that pupils retain the intended knowledge and skills. Overall, Vernon Terrace Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a positive school community.
