Mount Nod Primary School in Coventry has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from December 4 to 5, 2019. The school is characterized by a positive and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued. Students express a strong sense of belonging, noting that everyone smiles a lot and that they trust the staff to keep them safe. The school promotes a culture of kindness, with a behavior code that encourages pupils to use kind words and actions. This positive environment is reflected in the good behavior of pupils during lessons and playtimes.
Pupils at Mount Nod Primary School are enthusiastic about their learning and appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their teachers. They understand the importance of striving for their best and recognize that challenges in learning are opportunities for growth. While many pupils enjoy the current level of difficulty in their work, some have expressed a desire for more challenging tasks, particularly in reading and mathematics. The school leadership acknowledges this feedback and is committed to enhancing the academic rigor.
The curriculum at Mount Nod is broad and interesting, with a focus on cross-curricular links that enrich the learning experience. For instance, Year 5 and 6 pupils engage in a comprehensive study of the Tudors, which includes practical activities such as dancing, crafting, and visits to historical sites. Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a strong emphasis on phonics in the early years. Children in Reception receive a solid foundation in phonics, and the school ensures that reading materials are appropriately matched to their abilities. However, there is an ongoing effort to provide more challenging texts for older pupils to further enhance their reading skills.
Mathematics instruction has seen improvements, with leaders ensuring that pupils develop essential skills, such as fluency in times tables. Staff are dedicated to identifying and addressing gaps in pupils' learning, which contributes to a secure understanding of mathematical concepts. The school is inclusive, with strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The special educational needs coordinator and learning mentor work diligently to ensure that these pupils receive the necessary resources and support to thrive academically and socially.
Pastoral care at Mount Nod is of high quality, fostering strong relationships among staff, pupils, and parents. While some parents have raised concerns about communication, the majority feel that their children are safe and happy at school. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, yoga, and clubs, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. The choir is particularly popular, and pupils enjoy participating in community events.
Leadership at Mount Nod is effective, with the headteacher demonstrating a genuine care for both pupils and staff. Staff members feel supported and valued, which contributes to a positive working environment. Governors are actively involved in the school, regularly visiting to monitor progress and support the school's goals.
The inspection concluded that while Mount Nod Primary School continues to be a good school, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are encouraged to extend the high-quality training and development provided to subject leaders in reading, mathematics, and history to other subjects. Additionally, there is a need to ensure that all pupils, particularly the more able, are consistently challenged across the curriculum. Overall, Mount Nod Primary School is committed to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
