All Saints CofE VA Primary School in Kingsthorpe, Northampton, received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on March 8 and 9, 2022, and the school has maintained this good rating since its previous inspection in June 2016. The school serves pupils aged four to eleven and has a total enrollment of 375 students. The school is characterized by a strong emphasis on its core values, which include respect, compassion, and humility. These values are prominently displayed in the school's chapel through a values tree, and pupils are recognized for embodying these principles through the Values in Practice Awards.
The school fosters an inclusive and caring environment, with a clear focus on pastoral care. Pupils have access to support services such as the Rainbow Room and the Soothe Booth, where they can speak to trusted adults about any issues they may face. This supportive atmosphere contributes to pupils feeling safe and happy at school. The school has established a strong anti-bullying culture, with pupils demonstrating a clear understanding of what constitutes bullying and expressing confidence that any reported incidents will be addressed effectively.
Teachers at All Saints have high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in calm and orderly classrooms conducive to learning. Pupils express enjoyment in their educational experiences, highlighting subjects such as mathematics and French as particularly engaging. The curriculum is designed to provide breadth and depth, with subject leaders effectively overseeing the implementation of key topics and concepts. This structured approach helps build pupils' knowledge over time.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In certain foundation subjects, assessment practices are not consistently effective, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge that may not be adequately addressed. Additionally, while the school prioritizes reading, there are concerns regarding the matching of reading materials to pupils' phonics knowledge, which can hinder fluency in early readers. Leaders are aware of these challenges and are working to ensure that the new phonics program aligns better with pupils' learning needs.
The early years provision is well-structured, with teachers considering children's prior knowledge and interests when planning lessons. This approach allows for a tailored learning experience that encourages children to take risks and explore their environment. Staff are well-deployed to support children's learning, particularly in outdoor settings where they promote physical activity and exploration.
The school also emphasizes the importance of personal development, providing pupils with opportunities to engage in community service and leadership roles. Pupils participate in initiatives such as litter picking and fundraising events, which help instill a sense of responsibility and community awareness. The curriculum includes education on healthy living and relationships, equipping pupils with essential life skills.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors demonstrating a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff members report feeling supported and proud to work at the school, contributing to a positive school culture. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training and maintaining vigilance regarding pupils' well-being.
In summary, All Saints CofE VA Primary School is a well-rounded institution that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in assessment practices and reading materials, the school is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the dedication of the staff and leadership in fostering a nurturing and effective educational experience for all students.
