Geddington Church of England Primary School, located in Kettering, Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 6 and 7, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils take pride in their attendance. The core values of care, excellence, respect, responsibility, and joy are integral to the school's culture, guiding students in their interactions and behaviors. Older pupils, referred to as Reception Shepherds, play a supportive role for younger children, fostering a sense of community and responsibility among students. The positive behavior of pupils reflects the high expectations set by the staff, contributing to a respectful and kind atmosphere.
Pupils express enjoyment in their lessons and appreciate the opportunities to practice their learning. The school's approach to revisiting previously learned material, such as through 'flashback' tasks, aids in retention and understanding. Additionally, the school has established a strong anti-bullying culture, with pupils feeling safe and trusting adults to address any concerns promptly. The variety of well-planned activities, including residential trips and extracurricular clubs, enriches the pupils' educational experience. Parents and carers generally hold positive views about the school, often highlighting its community feel.
The school excels in its curriculum design, which is organized to ensure that pupils gradually build their knowledge and vocabulary. This structured approach begins in the early years and is evident in subjects like history, where pupils can confidently discuss significant events. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in some foundation subjects where the identification of key knowledge and vocabulary is not as precise. This can hinder pupils' ability to build on their knowledge consistently across the curriculum.
Reading is a priority at Geddington, with a well-implemented phonics program that allows pupils to practice at home and school. Regular reading across subjects enhances fluency and comprehension, and additional support is provided for those who struggle. Mathematics is also a strong point, with clear expectations for pupils to articulate their thinking using appropriate vocabulary. Teachers effectively plan lessons that build on prior knowledge, utilizing various assessment methods to gauge understanding.
The school demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are knowledgeable about individual needs and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly. The environment is calm and orderly, with clear routines established, especially in the Reception class. Support is available for pupils to manage their emotions and behavior, which is appreciated by both pupils and parents.
Personal development is a notable strength, with pupils learning about respect, tolerance, and British values. They engage in activities that promote understanding of democracy and diversity. The governing body plays an active role in monitoring the effectiveness of leadership, and staff express pride in their work environment, noting the consideration given to their well-being.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety practices. While the school has many strengths, it must focus on refining its curriculum in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils develop the deep knowledge necessary for future learning. Overall, Geddington Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
