Hackleton CofE Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, has recently undergone an inspection that evaluated its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on December 6 and 7, 2023, and assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good, except for behavior and attitudes, which were rated as outstanding.
The school has a long history of success, having been previously rated as outstanding 13 years ago. Since then, it has been exempt from routine inspections until November 2020. The recent inspection reflects the current educational framework and acknowledges any changes that may have occurred since the last graded inspection.
Pupils at Hackleton thrive in a supportive and safe environment, benefiting from a dedicated staff team that is committed to their well-being. The school promotes inclusivity, and students express pride in their community, emphasizing values such as respect, friendship, and love. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, and they demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, meeting high expectations consistently throughout the school day. The curriculum is ambitious, providing numerous opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents, including music, sports, and the arts.
The school excels in fostering a love for reading from an early age. Early years staff actively engage children in language development, and the implementation of a new phonics scheme has been effective. Pupils enjoy reading and are motivated to participate in reading challenges. The curriculum is designed thoughtfully, allowing pupils to revisit key content, which helps them build a strong foundation of knowledge over time.
While the school has established effective monitoring of pupil progress, there are areas for improvement, particularly in foundation subjects where assessments may not always identify specific learning gaps. This can lead to teaching that does not fully address the needs of all pupils. Additionally, while staff generally demonstrate good subject knowledge and adapt lessons well, there are instances where adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) could be more effective.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, promoting understanding of safety, healthy relationships, and cultural diversity. However, there is a noted need for improvement in pupils' understanding of fundamental British values. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities, enhancing the overall educational experience.
The governing body provides strong support and guidance, and staff appreciate the leadership team's efforts to improve the school environment and address their well-being. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must refine its assessment and monitoring processes in foundation subjects to ensure that all pupils achieve a secure understanding of the curriculum. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that all pupils with SEND receive tailored support that meets their individual needs consistently.
Overall, Hackleton CofE Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive learning environment, and supporting the personal development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths and address areas for improvement to continue its journey of excellence in education.
