Huntingdon Primary School is an inclusive institution where students experience happiness and a strong sense of community. The school fosters a culture of respect and celebration among pupils, who appreciate the nurturing environment provided by the staff. Parents and carers also recognize the school's commitment to creating a supportive atmosphere. Pupils feel secure in reporting any incidents of bullying, trusting that staff will address their concerns effectively. The school maintains high standards of behavior, with calm and well-managed playtimes, and staff are proactive in ensuring that interactions among students remain positive.
The school emphasizes ambitious goals for student achievement, and pupils express enjoyment in their diverse subjects. They value the numerous opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school ambassadors or peer mediators. The school enhances learning through various trips and activities, including residential experiences, which pupils find enriching.
Huntingdon Primary School has a clear vision for reading, aiming for all students to become fluent readers. The reading curriculum is structured and incremental, beginning with phonics instruction in Reception. This approach allows pupils to master their skills before progressing. Staff regularly assess students' understanding to ensure effective learning. The curriculum is well-planned and sequenced, building knowledge and skills logically over time. Teachers are well-trained, and pupils express enthusiasm for their learning experiences, particularly in subjects like physical education.
However, there are some gaps between the curriculum plans and actual teaching in a few foundation subjects. In these areas, teachers do not consistently follow the planned curriculum, leading to missed content and less secure knowledge for pupils. This inconsistency can hinder students' ability to retain key vocabulary and concepts necessary for future learning.
The early years curriculum is thoughtfully designed, preparing children for the national curriculum in Year 1. Staff engage actively with children, modeling correct pronunciation and fostering a stimulating learning environment. Children enjoy creative activities, such as using musical instruments, and understand the expectations set by staff.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. A robust system is in place to identify and address the needs of these students, including necessary adjustments in the classroom. Staff receive training that equips them to work effectively with these pupils, utilizing tailored programs to promote their success and resilience.
Behavior throughout the school is calm, and pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for their lessons. Most students are engaged and eager to learn, with staff providing timely support to help them regain focus when needed. The school has made strides in improving attendance, with persistent absence rates decreasing due to clear procedures that encourage regular attendance.
Huntingdon Primary School offers a variety of engaging extracurricular activities that nurture pupils' talents. Students participate in charity events and enjoy rich experiences linked to the curriculum, such as trips to local libraries and museums. The school promotes respect for diverse cultures and religions, fostering an ethos of tolerance and understanding among pupils.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel supported, and the school regularly assesses their workload to ensure a healthy work-life balance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its educational provision, the school must ensure that the intended curriculum is fully implemented across all foundation subjects, enabling pupils to acquire the comprehensive knowledge necessary for their future learning.