Monkfield Park Primary School in Cambourne, Cambridge, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 26 and 27, 2024. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils feel happy and safe. They engage well with both their peers and the staff, fostering a supportive environment. The behavior of the students is commendable, with most displaying good conduct during lessons and throughout the school premises. The teaching staff, including teachers and teaching assistants, work collaboratively to create well-organized classrooms that enhance the learning experience. The outdoor spaces are utilized creatively, providing attractive areas for play and learning.
The school maintains high expectations for student achievement, particularly in reading, mathematics, and writing. Pupils quickly develop their reading skills and excel in mathematics, while their writing continues to improve. Although the school covers the full curriculum, some subjects do not meet the same high standards as others. The leadership is aware of these areas and is actively working to address them.
Monkfield Park offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and musical theatre, which enrich the pupils' educational experience. The enthusiasm for singing and participation in end-of-year performances is evident among the students. Older pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities through roles such as play leaders and peer mediators, contributing to their personal development. The school is also focused on enhancing pupils' understanding of democracy through initiatives like school and eco-councils.
The curriculum is broad and includes all national curriculum subjects, ensuring that essential themes and topics are covered. However, there are areas where the planning could be more detailed, particularly in connecting the learning experiences from preschool to Year 6. This lack of continuity sometimes results in repetition of content rather than building on prior knowledge.
The school has established effective strategies for developing language skills and teaching reading. The phonics program has been successfully implemented for several years, with well-trained staff applying its principles consistently. Most pupils become fluent readers by the end of Year 2, and older students have access to a wide range of reading materials.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and present information clearly. They work closely with teaching assistants to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are fully included in learning activities. This collaborative approach helps these pupils achieve at levels comparable to their peers. While there has been a focus on improving writing quality, there are instances where the emphasis on written tasks detracts from the development of practical skills. Some assignments could be more challenging, which may limit the overall skill development of the pupils.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance has improved, with fewer pupils frequently absent. This improvement is partly due to enhanced support for families, including assistance with punctuality. The behavior of most pupils in lessons is positive, and they show enthusiasm for challenging tasks. The school implements a supportive approach to help pupils regain focus when they struggle with self-control.
Monkfield Park Primary School follows a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program, equipping pupils with age-appropriate knowledge on forming positive relationships. The school promotes an understanding of diverse beliefs and cultures through its curriculum. Staff express high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating the support for their workload and the collaborative environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, Monkfield Park Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience, with clear areas identified for further improvement.
