Winhills Primary Academy, located in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 1 and 2, 2024. The headteacher, Nicola Harradine, leads the school, which is part of the Diamond Learning Partnership Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Susannah Connell and a board of trustees chaired by Alan Ball. The school has a strong reputation for fostering a welcoming and caring environment where pupils feel safe and respected. Students demonstrate high levels of respect towards each other and staff, contributing to a positive school culture.
Pupils at Winhills Primary Academy benefit from a well-planned and broad curriculum that supports their academic achievement. They express enthusiasm for their learning and understand its relevance to their classroom experiences. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The implementation of reward systems, such as the RRR Award, encourages pupils to strive for their best. Older students take on responsibilities, such as serving as reading ambassadors, which fosters leadership and community involvement.
Staff members are dedicated to understanding the needs of pupils and their families, providing substantial support for emotional and social well-being. While most students attend school regularly, a small number do not, which can hinder their learning progress. School leaders are committed to enhancing pupils' life experiences through various extracurricular activities, including clubs and educational trips. Recent excursions, such as a visit to Grafham Water, and community engagement with local authorities, like the police, help students learn about safety and responsibility.
The curriculum at Winhills Primary Academy has evolved to meet the diverse needs of its pupils, ensuring that all students receive the necessary knowledge and skills from early years through Year 6. Teachers revisit key concepts to reinforce learning, and ongoing professional development enables them to enhance their teaching practices. Regular assessments help identify students who require additional support, ensuring that all pupils can succeed academically.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a strong emphasis on phonics instruction from the beginning of a child's education. The school provides a rich selection of reading materials, and older pupils enjoy sharing stories with younger students, promoting a love for reading. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs, collaborating with parents and external agencies to provide tailored assistance.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with pupils reporting that they can focus on their learning without disruptions. The school has effective systems in place to monitor attendance, although persistent absenteeism among disadvantaged pupils remains a concern. This issue can create gaps in learning, making it challenging for some students to catch up.
Winhills Primary Academy offers a comprehensive personal development program, teaching pupils about safety, health, and well-being. A variety of clubs and enrichment activities provide opportunities for students to develop new skills and interests. The school fosters an inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued and welcomed.
Staff members appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them, which contribute to their growth as educators. The collaborative culture within the school is evident, and leaders are mindful of staff workload. The board of trustees and governors maintain a strong connection with the school, regularly visiting to stay informed about its operations.
The safeguarding arrangements at Winhills Primary Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. Moving forward, the school must address the issue of persistent absenteeism to enhance learning outcomes for all students. By reviewing attendance monitoring processes, leaders can work towards ensuring that every pupil attends school regularly and benefits from the educational opportunities provided.
