Summercroft Primary School in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 14 and 15, 2022. The school provides a rich curriculum that fosters curiosity and enthusiasm among its pupils, enabling them to develop detailed subject knowledge and confidence in their learning. The environment encourages pupils to share ideas and challenge each other's thinking, ensuring they are well-prepared for future educational stages. The school promotes high expectations for both learning and behavior, with early years children quickly adapting to routines that support their confidence.
Pupils demonstrate resilience and learn from setbacks, feeling safe and supported within the school community. They express confidence that their concerns are heard and addressed promptly by adults, contributing to a culture of mutual respect. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, they are dealt with swiftly. Parents have expressed overwhelming positivity towards the school, appreciating its nurturing ethos that values each child as an individual.
The leadership team has developed an ambitious curriculum that spans all subjects from early years to Year 6. They have carefully identified the essential knowledge pupils should acquire in each subject, and teachers plan lessons that build on prior learning. Staff members exhibit confidence in their subject knowledge, providing clear explanations and routinely checking pupils' understanding to ensure they are ready to progress to new concepts.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the books they read. A new phonics program has been introduced, enhancing the effective practices already in place. Staff in early years and key stage 1 have received training to implement this program effectively, resulting in a consistent approach to phonics instruction. Younger pupils engage in daily practice to secure their phonics knowledge, allowing them to confidently decode texts and develop reading fluency. However, a small number of pupils in key stage 2 are not yet secure in their phonics knowledge, and the support they receive does not adequately address their specific gaps, hindering their reading development.
The curriculum and extracurricular activities support pupils' broader development, with opportunities in music, drama, and sports. Pupils participate in visits and engage with visitors to enhance their learning experiences. They demonstrate respect for diverse cultures and traditions, valuing each other's differences.
Governors actively engage with the school community, gathering feedback from pupils, parents, and staff to assess the impact of leadership on learning and development. Staff members feel well-supported and receive regular training, with leaders being mindful of their workload and well-being. However, there is recognition that the information published on the school’s website needs to be updated to ensure parents have access to current curriculum and policy information.
The safeguarding arrangements at Summercroft Primary School are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety of pupils and staff. Regular training ensures that staff can identify potential risks, and efficient systems are in place for reporting concerns. Pupils learn to keep themselves safe, including when using the internet.
To improve, the school needs to enhance the support for key stage 2 pupils who struggle with reading by addressing their phonics gaps more precisely. Additionally, leaders should ensure that the information on the school’s website is current, allowing parents to stay informed about the school’s operations and policies. Overall, Summercroft Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong foundation for future growth and development.
