All Saints CofE Primary School and Nursery in Nuneaton has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 17-18, 2019. The school’s motto, “learning for life, building a firm foundation,” is evident in its educational approach and school culture. The school promotes equal opportunities, fairness, and respect, which contribute to a nurturing environment where pupils thrive and develop into mature, caring citizens.
The school is known for its inclusivity, with leaders providing excellent support for families needing additional assistance. As a result, pupils achieve high standards in their work by the time they leave. The atmosphere throughout the school is calm, and most pupils exhibit commendable behavior both in lessons and while moving around the school. They are polite and respectful, often opening doors for visitors. Although some pupils reported occasional behavioral issues, they noted that staff effectively address any negative behavior, contributing to a sense of safety and well-being. Pupils understand the concept of bullying and are aware of the importance of reporting it to an adult, with incidents being rare and managed appropriately.
Pupils have numerous opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as serving as peer mediators or participating in the eco council, which they enjoy. The school excels in its early years education, with nursery children engaging enthusiastically in rhymes and stories. The quality of education in the nursery is exceptional, with every moment being a learning opportunity. The strong connection between adults and children fosters a safe and happy environment, allowing for significant progress.
Phonics instruction begins in nursery, with skilled teachers integrating learning seamlessly into sessions. The Reception teacher builds on this foundation, linking phonics to handwriting and providing books that align with the phonics being taught. However, there is a need for improvement in how teachers break down phonics and spelling patterns into smaller, sequenced steps, as this inconsistency can hinder some pupils from reaching their full potential.
Pupils enjoy reading, with senior leaders carefully selecting books that connect to other subjects. For instance, Year 6 pupils found that reading “Street Child” enhanced their understanding of the Victorian era. This integration of reading with other subjects has positively impacted pupils’ writing skills, particularly for disadvantaged pupils, who perform well by the end of Year 6.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring consistent behavioral expectations that benefit all learners. Older pupils appreciate the strategies they develop to manage their feelings and foster a respectful environment. Subjects such as history, geography, and science are linked through engaging topics, allowing pupils to learn through visits and practical activities. However, there is a need for a stronger focus on retaining specific knowledge and skills over time, as pupils often discuss activities rather than the learning outcomes.
Staff collaboration is strong, with a focus on well-being and reducing workload. The school is well-led, and parents express support for the leadership team. The headteacher is particularly noted for being approachable and attentive to the needs of the community.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded in school life. Leaders monitor vulnerable pupils closely and engage parents to foster positive relationships. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding procedures, and older pupils are trained in peer mediation, contributing to a safe and enjoyable playtime experience.
To improve, the school needs to clarify the specific phonics and spelling content required for each term to ensure that all pupils meet age-related expectations. Additionally, the recent curriculum changes require further embedding to ensure that knowledge and skills in foundation subjects are consistently developed across the school. Overall, All Saints CofE Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good education, with clear areas identified for further enhancement.
