St Peter's School, located in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel confident and happy. They exhibit politeness towards visitors and express that they feel safe within the school community. The relationships between pupils and teachers are constructive, with staff maintaining high expectations for student behavior and success. The school has made significant efforts to enhance behavior management, resulting in most pupils demonstrating good conduct. In instances of bullying, pupils report that staff effectively address and resolve issues, ensuring a supportive atmosphere.
The curriculum at St Peter's School is tailored to meet the interests and needs of the pupils, delivered by skilled educators. Lessons are relevant and designed to equip students with the knowledge necessary for future academic pursuits and long-term success. The school promotes an understanding of diversity and respect for differences, creating an inclusive culture that accommodates pupils with complex learning needs. Participation in a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities is encouraged, with students expressing enthusiasm for opportunities such as cadets, science clubs, and sports. The school emphasizes learning beyond the classroom and character development through a bespoke program.
Leadership at St Peter's School is characterized by a clear vision aimed at ensuring all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have the opportunity to excel. Leaders provide tailored support for pupils with additional learning needs, ensuring they have access to effective nurture and emotional support. The school places a strong emphasis on professional development for staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and expertise.
The curriculum is aligned with the school's high expectations, and leaders actively monitor and evaluate its effectiveness. They have established reliable assessment routines to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, allowing for timely interventions. While most subjects are well-taught, there are minor inconsistencies in how effectively some teachers help pupils retain information. Leaders are aware of this and are taking steps to enhance staff expertise in this area.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and encourage the use of subject-specific vocabulary, particularly benefiting sixth-form students. The school has implemented targeted interventions for pupils needing additional support with reading, which has proven effective for Year 7 students. The English curriculum exposes pupils to a diverse range of quality texts, fostering engagement in reading across all subjects.
Behaviour at St Peter's School is generally good, with effective management of poor conduct leading to minimal disruption in lessons. The school has seen a significant reduction in suspensions and referrals for poor behaviour over the past four years, contributing to a calmer school environment. Pupils trust staff to handle behavioural issues effectively.
The school provides various opportunities for pupils to develop their understanding of the wider world, including participation in the National Citizenship Service and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Younger pupils benefit from a dedicated cultural program that includes travel and tourism.
Staff express positive sentiments regarding the support they receive from leaders, particularly concerning their well-being and workload management. Governors play an essential role in supporting school leadership and holding them accountable for development.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Peter's School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. The curriculum also equips pupils with knowledge to make safe choices, including online safety. Overall, St Peter's School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
