Kingsthorpe Village Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, underwent an inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained this standard since its previous inspection in May 2016. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils express enthusiasm about their school experience, highlighting the engaging lessons and strong friendships they form. They particularly enjoy the well-equipped outdoor areas that promote physical fitness and social skills. The school has resumed extra-curricular activities, which include a variety of sports, a choir, and a new computer coding club, generating excitement among students.
The school prioritizes pupil safety, with staff teaching students how to maintain their well-being. Pupils feel supported by their teachers, who help them manage worries and foster a safe environment. The introduction of 'worry monsters' allows students to express concerns anonymously, contributing to a culture where bullying is rare and effectively addressed.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating politeness and helpfulness towards one another and adults. They respond positively to the high expectations set by teachers, which contributes to a focused learning atmosphere.
Leaders are actively revising the curriculum across all subjects to ensure that essential knowledge and skills are clearly defined for pupils as they progress. While significant progress has been made, the work is ongoing, partly due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In some subjects, the curriculum does not fully incorporate the early years foundation stage's importance.
To enhance subject leadership, senior leaders are collaborating with the local authority to provide training for subject leaders, aiming to improve their skills and understanding of their areas from early years to Year 6. In mathematics, a new curriculum approach has been introduced, clearly outlining what pupils should learn in each year group, which has been well received by students.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with a consistent approach to teaching early reading and phonics. Staff are well-trained, and pupils enjoy reading, demonstrating pride in their developing skills. Children in early years and Year 1 benefit from reading materials that align with their phonics knowledge, enabling them to become confident readers quickly.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), promptly identifying and assessing their needs. The curriculum is adapted to ensure these pupils can participate fully in lessons.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and understand the school's core values, such as trust and resilience. They enjoy collecting 'value pebbles' and earning class rewards, reinforcing their belief that the school rules are fair and that it is a safe and happy environment conducive to learning.
Leaders and staff promote personal development by educating pupils about various faiths and cultures, fostering an understanding of democracy and tolerance. Pupils engage in debates on various issues, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Governors play an active role in the school, maintaining links with subject leaders to gather firsthand information about the curriculum. They question leaders about the school's performance and prioritize staff well-being. Regular discussions with parents and carers help ensure that the school remains responsive to the community's needs.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders emphasizing that safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Staff receive up-to-date training, and there is a clear system for logging concerns about pupils. Governors regularly check the school's safeguarding procedures, fulfilling their statutory duties.
While the school has made significant strides, there is still work to be done in ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned and sequenced across all subjects. Leaders have a clear vision for the curriculum and are taking appropriate steps to achieve it, but the revision process is ongoing. Strengthening subject leadership will be essential to ensure that pupils know and remember more over time in all areas of learning.
