Headlands Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 6 and 7, 2024. The headteacher, Darren Smith, leads the school, which is part of the Northampton Primary Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Julia Kedwards and a board of trustees chaired by James Marscheider. The school prioritizes inclusivity and creates a nurturing environment for its pupils, who are at the heart of its operations. The school promotes its DARE values—determination, achievement, respect, and enjoyment—encouraging students to embody these principles in their daily activities.
Pupils report feeling safe and supported, knowing they can approach any adult with concerns. The school fosters positive relationships between students and staff, contributing to a respectful atmosphere. Opportunities for leadership are abundant, with pupils taking on roles such as play leaders and DARE ambassadors, which they approach with pride. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including basketball and choir, enhancing the overall educational experience.
The curriculum at Headlands Primary is well-structured and tailored to meet the needs of all students. It incorporates local history and culture, such as the Great Fire of Northampton and the boot and shoe industry, making learning relevant and engaging. Teachers effectively help pupils recall prior knowledge, facilitating the learning of new concepts. However, there is a noted need for clearer communication regarding the specific knowledge required for subjects like science and history.
A strong emphasis is placed on vocabulary development from the early years, with children learning to use descriptive language accurately. Reading is a significant focus, supported by the school’s reading mascot, Biblio, which motivates pupils to engage with literature. The school library is a popular resource, and pupils have opportunities to publish their own works, such as poetry anthologies.
The teaching of phonics is consistent and effective, with staff well-trained to support pupils in their reading journey. The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and appropriate support.
Personal development is also a priority, with pupils gaining a solid understanding of equalities and British values through real-life experiences. The school celebrates the arts, providing opportunities for pupils to work with artists and display their work throughout the school.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, as some pupils do not attend regularly enough, impacting their learning and achievement. The school is committed to working with families to improve attendance rates.
Governance is strong, with trustees and governors actively involved in the school’s operations. Staff express pride in their work environment and feel valued by leadership. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all pupils.
The inspection concluded that while the school provides a good quality of education, there are areas for improvement, particularly in clarifying disciplinary knowledge in the wider curriculum and addressing attendance issues. The school is encouraged to continue its efforts to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
