Newton Ferrers Church of England Primary School, located in Plymouth, Devon, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on February 27 and 28, 2024, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while personal development was rated as outstanding. The school is led by head of school Penelope Bishop and acting head Jason Stephens, and it is part of The First Federation Trust, overseen by CEO Paul Walker and a board of trustees chaired by Alex Walmsley.
The school has a strong focus on preparing pupils to be global citizens, encouraging them to contribute positively to their local and wider communities. Pupils develop a solid moral framework, supported by exceptional personal development opportunities. They are known for their kindness and consideration towards peers and adults, embodying the school’s value of love. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in calm and enjoyable breaktimes. Many pupils take on leadership roles, such as bullying ambassadors and mental health champions, fostering a supportive environment.
The curriculum is engaging and ambitious, with a strong emphasis on vocabulary and oracy skills. Pupils participate in discussions and debates, enhancing their learning experience. They also have access to a variety of musical and sporting opportunities, benefiting from well-planned extracurricular clubs that nurture their talents. As a result, pupils leave the school as confident and well-rounded individuals.
While the academic curriculum has seen significant development, with leaders ensuring it is ambitious across all subjects, there are areas for improvement. In the wider curriculum, pupils do not write purposefully, which limits their ability to practice and apply their knowledge. Additionally, some disadvantaged pupils struggle to fully extend their knowledge and skills due to the way certain subjects are taught. The school is committed to addressing these issues to ensure all pupils achieve their potential.
Phonics instruction is a strong point, with a systematic approach that begins in the early years. Children are introduced to phonics through songs and rhymes, preparing them for formal learning. The school effectively identifies pupils needing extra support, providing timely assistance. The positive culture of reading is reinforced by pupil librarians and regular library visits, fostering a love for reading among students.
Staff professional development is prioritized, equipping them to support pupils' social, emotional, and mental health needs. The school provides a calm space for pupils to regulate their emotions, ensuring they are ready to learn. Parents appreciate the high levels of pastoral support, which helps children in the early years develop friendships and social skills.
The school emphasizes personal development as a core aspect of its ethos, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. They engage in discussions about fundamental British values and demonstrate a deep understanding of diversity and inclusion. Pupils learn about safety through practical sessions and develop empathy through international links.
The school is dedicated to continuous improvement, with staff expressing satisfaction with their workload and the supportive community atmosphere. Parents are positive about communication regarding their children's experiences. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that the curriculum is taught in a way that supports all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged. Additionally, it should provide more opportunities for purposeful writing across the curriculum to help pupils develop essential skills for future learning.
