Ashton CofE Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, underwent an inspection on October 22-23, 2019, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. This marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a close-knit community where pupils express pride in their school and appreciate the familiarity that comes with its small size. They feel a sense of belonging, often describing the environment as akin to a family. Older students take on mentorship roles, assisting younger pupils, particularly in reading, which fosters a supportive atmosphere.
Pupils report that behavior has improved significantly, with teachers effectively managing conflicts and ensuring that bullying is not a concern. The recent enhancements to the school, such as the introduction of a new library, have been well-received, and students enjoy selecting books that interest them. The school offers a variety of trips and visits that enrich the learning experience, and teachers maintain high expectations, which encourages pupils to engage actively in their tasks.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive. Younger pupils adapt quickly to routines and learn to work independently. Leaders have implemented numerous changes to improve the school environment, emphasizing the importance of consistent behavior across all settings. They collaborate closely with parents to promote regular attendance, which has seen positive results.
Teachers are well-trained and adept at engaging pupils in reading. Younger students quickly learn phonics, while older pupils develop a love for reading through exposure to various authors and literary techniques. The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge, particularly in subjects like mathematics and science, where pupils apply their understanding to real-world scenarios.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for improvement. While leaders have made strides in enhancing teaching and learning, ongoing monitoring is essential to ensure these changes are effective. Teachers need to better identify the next steps for pupils with SEND, ensuring that they can apply what they learn in small group settings to independent work. Additionally, the planning of the curriculum across all subjects requires coherence and a sequential approach to ensure that all pupils retain knowledge effectively.
Pupils demonstrate an understanding of healthy living and the importance of exercise, reflecting on moral questions and learning about diverse faiths. They engage in activities that promote tolerance and respect for differing opinions, and they are educated on online safety. The school has established connections with other small schools, allowing staff to collaborate and share best practices, which helps manage workloads and enriches the pupils' experiences.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of danger and to respond appropriately. Leaders maintain secure records and work with various agencies to support families in need. Governors play an active role in ensuring that leaders understand their responsibilities and that training is up to date.
In summary, Ashton CofE Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, with a strong focus on community, support for all pupils, and a commitment to continuous improvement. While there are areas that require further attention, the overall environment is conducive to learning, and the school is well-positioned to build on its successes. The leadership team is encouraged to maintain their momentum in monitoring and refining educational practices to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
