Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Ecton Brook Primary School on 6 March 2019, following its previous judgment of good in May 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team, led by joint headteachers Mrs. Debbie Archer and Mr. Neil Woods, has established a clear vision of high expectations supported by a strong ethos of care shared by the entire school community. The Northampton Primary Academy Trust collaborates effectively with school leaders and governors, ensuring accurate assessments of the school's performance and providing valuable training and opportunities for sharing best practices.
The leadership team has clarified roles and responsibilities among staff, contributing to the school's capacity for improvement. However, the plans for improvement need to be sharper to drive more rapid progress. The school has focused on enhancing the integration of English and mathematics skills across the curriculum, maintaining a commitment to a broad educational experience. While pupils enter the school with skills below the national average, they achieve close to national expectations by the end of Reception and Year 2, demonstrating at least good progress. Writing remains a strength, although attainment in reading and mathematics at the end of key stage 2 has been variable, with progress in these areas falling below national averages in 2018.
Recent staffing changes and evolving national expectations have prompted the leadership to revise policies and frameworks to ensure systematic progress. The school has successfully maintained good behavior and attitudes among pupils, who express pride in their school and feel safe and supported. The curriculum emphasizes a wide range of experiences, including trips and partnerships with organizations like the Royal Shakespeare Company. The provision for spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is strong, with pupils engaging in various responsibilities and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Parents express high levels of confidence in the school's leadership, appreciating the approachability of staff and the care provided to their children. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong commitment to pupil well-being. The trust supports leaders in ensuring appropriate vetting checks and ongoing training for staff regarding child safety.
The inspection highlighted consistent classroom routines and positive relationships between teachers and pupils, fostering confidence and enthusiasm for learning. Leaders are proactive in addressing any shortcomings in teaching, ensuring that good practices are sustained despite staff changes. A focus on improving reading progress, particularly in key stage 2, has led to the introduction of strategies to enhance vocabulary and comprehension skills. In mathematics, a revised framework has clarified learning objectives, resulting in secure progress in calculation skills.
While some teachers excel in adapting instruction to meet diverse pupil needs, there is variability in this skill across the staff. The school has made strides in reducing fixed-term exclusions and improving attendance rates, with current figures nearing national averages. Leaders remain focused on optimizing attendance and providing support for families facing challenges. Overall, the school is on a positive trajectory, with clear next steps identified for further improvement in teaching quality and pupil outcomes.
