Wootton Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, with the dates of the inspection being 13 and 14 February 2024. The outcome of this inspection confirmed that the school maintains its overall judgement of good. However, the evidence gathered during the inspection suggests that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The leadership of the school is shared by headteachers Jamie Nairn and Robert Crilly, and it operates under The Tove Learning Trust, which involves a collaborative approach to governance and management.
The school is characterized by its ambitious and inclusive environment, with a curriculum designed to foster both character development and a passion for learning among pupils. Strong connections with the local community contribute to a nurturing atmosphere, where parents feel their children are valued as individuals rather than just numbers. This sentiment is echoed by parents who appreciate the holistic approach to their children's development, which extends beyond academics.
Pupil behavior at Wootton Primary School is exemplary, with students demonstrating respectful confidence and high engagement levels in lessons. They work well both independently and collaboratively, showing enthusiasm and interest in their learning. The school promotes a culture of support among pupils, who celebrate each other's achievements and express pride in their work. Students feel safe and happy, and they enjoy a variety of extracurricular clubs and responsibilities, such as serving as sports leaders.
In the Reception Year, children learn through play, with staff effectively supporting language and communication development through interactive questioning and modeling. The school has established a strong reading culture, with phonics lessons that enhance reading fluency. Staff are well-trained, and interventions are in place to assist pupils at risk of falling behind, ensuring that all students can keep pace with their peers. The structured reading practice sessions further support comprehension and vocabulary development, fostering a love for reading among pupils.
The curriculum is aspirational, focusing on developing a sense of self, others, and the world. Leaders have clearly identified essential knowledge and vocabulary for each subject, and pupils demonstrate their learning through end-of-unit essays. Mathematics lessons emphasize fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning skills, with teachers employing effective teaching principles to reinforce previous learning.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities make significant progress, supported by clear identification processes and proactive funding efforts. The school collaborates with external agencies to enhance its provision for these pupils, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
The wider curriculum prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, instilling an understanding of fundamental British values and promoting discussions about diversity and relationships. The school's initiative, 5 to thrive, provides additional opportunities for enrichment through trips and experiences.
Staff members feel well-supported by school leaders, who are considerate of their workload and well-being. Professional development opportunities are abundant, and governors fulfill their responsibilities effectively. The safeguarding arrangements at Wootton Primary School are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
This inspection marks the second ungraded inspection since the school was last judged to be good in November 2018. The school continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education, with a focus on both academic achievement and personal development. The next inspection is anticipated to be a graded one, which will further assess the school's progress and effectiveness in delivering education.
