All Saints CEVA Primary School and Nursery, located in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, has received a positive inspection report, indicating an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on June 28 and 29, 2022, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which had rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils feel valued and supported. They express enjoyment in their learning and appreciate the caring environment fostered by the staff. Pupils describe the school as kind, highlighting the mutual support among students.
The staff at All Saints CEVA Primary School maintain high expectations for their pupils, promoting a set of behavioral rules known as the golden five. These rules are well understood by the students, who demonstrate positive attitudes towards their work and interactions with peers. The school encourages pupils to take on leadership roles, such as prefects and house captains, which contributes to their sense of responsibility and belonging. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite, respectful, and aware that bullying is not tolerated. They feel confident in reporting any concerns to staff, who are quick to address issues.
Parents and carers have expressed overwhelming positivity towards the school, with many noting the nurturing environment that helps develop confident and polite children. The welcoming nature of the staff is particularly appreciated, reinforcing the school's commitment to fostering strong relationships with families.
The curriculum at All Saints CEVA Primary School is well-structured in many subjects, allowing pupils to build their knowledge and skills progressively. Pupils demonstrate a good understanding of complex vocabulary in subjects like music and history. However, there are areas where the curriculum could be more ambitious, as some subjects lack clarity regarding the key knowledge that pupils should acquire from nursery through to the end of key stage two. Additionally, there is inconsistency in how leaders assess pupil learning in these subjects.
Mathematics is a subject that pupils enjoy, and the school has established a clear sequence for teaching new concepts. Teachers effectively explain learning objectives and utilize mathematical vocabulary, enabling pupils to engage meaningfully with the material. Regular activities help reinforce their understanding and retention of mathematical concepts.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a diverse selection of high-quality books available to pupils. The structured daily phonics sessions support pupils in developing their decoding skills, ensuring they can tackle unfamiliar words. Staff monitor pupil progress closely, providing additional support when necessary to help those who may fall behind.
In the early years, relationships between children and adults are strong, with teachers providing engaging tasks that promote independent learning. Children confidently use scientific vocabulary and apply their mathematical understanding in various contexts. The learning environment is designed to be stimulating and supportive.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with staff effectively communicating with parents and identifying needs promptly. The school collaborates with external agencies to ensure these pupils have access to the full curriculum and receive the necessary support.
While leaders are reviewing the school's assessment approach, there are inconsistencies in how effectively teachers check pupil understanding across different subjects. This inconsistency can hinder the identification of gaps in learning. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that assessment practices assist teachers in determining clear next steps for pupils without adding unnecessary burdens.
The school promotes resilience among pupils, teaching them techniques such as happy breathing to help manage stress and clear their minds. However, there is some inconsistency in pupils' understanding of British values, particularly regarding democracy and the diversity of faiths and beliefs.
Governors and local authority representatives are well-informed about the school and fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Leaders work collaboratively with staff, providing regular training and considering their well-being. Staff express high levels of satisfaction with the support they receive.
The safeguarding arrangements at All Saints CEVA Primary School are robust, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the school. Staff are trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. The curriculum includes opportunities for pupils to learn about safety, including online safety, and they know whom to approach with concerns.
In summary, All Saints CEVA Primary School and Nursery demonstrates a commitment to providing a nurturing and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum planning and assessment consistency, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, reflecting the dedication of its staff and the positive experiences of its pupils.
