Mile Cross Primary School, located in Norwich, Norfolk, has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted on November 14-15, 2017. The school has demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in leadership and management, teaching quality, personal development, behavior, welfare, and pupil outcomes. The headteacher and the leadership team have established a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that the school consistently raises pupils' outcomes through rigorous systems and procedures. The investment in staff training and support has led to outstanding teaching practices, with teachers held accountable for their pupils' performance.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior and a strong enthusiasm for learning, contributing to a positive school environment. The progress of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is particularly noteworthy, with the specialist resource base providing tailored support that meets individual needs effectively. The school fosters a safe and welcoming atmosphere, reflected in the high attendance rates of its pupils. The curriculum is dynamic and enriched with various activities, ensuring that pupils make strong progress across all subjects, not just in English and mathematics.
In the early years, children receive an excellent start in Nursery and Reception, with a well-structured assessment system that engages parents and captures children's achievements. While outcomes by the end of Year 6 are very high, the school acknowledges the need to enhance writing skills to ensure that more children reach national standards by the end of Reception. The school has identified the barriers to learning faced by some disadvantaged pupils and is working to address these in its pupil premium strategy.
The leadership team is dynamic and knowledgeable, with a strong senior leadership team that shares the school's vision. The governors play an active role in supporting the school, ensuring that resources are used effectively to drive improvement. The school has successfully developed its own leaders, with middle leaders demonstrating authority and impact in their areas of responsibility. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs and interests of pupils, with a strong emphasis on providing rich experiences that enhance learning.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Staff receive high-quality training in safeguarding, ensuring that they are well-equipped to support pupils' welfare. The school promotes pupils' personal development through various initiatives, including an active school council and a well-established rewards system that fosters self-esteem and encourages positive behavior.
Pupils' outcomes are outstanding, with rapid progress from very low starting points. The school has maintained high standards year after year, with no significant setbacks. The performance of disadvantaged pupils is closely monitored, and they achieve well, often matching or exceeding their peers. The school has implemented effective tracking systems to ensure that all pupils, including the most able, receive the support they need to excel.
Overall, Mile Cross Primary School is a vibrant and effective learning environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The commitment to continuous improvement, high-quality teaching, and a supportive atmosphere contributes to the school's outstanding reputation. The school is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential and are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
