Hatton Park Primary School, located in Longstanton, Cambridge, has undergone an ungraded inspection on January 25 and 26, 2024. The overall judgement remains good, with indications that a graded inspection could potentially yield an outstanding rating. The headteacher, John Canavan, leads the school, which is part of the Meridian Trust, overseen by CEO Mark Woods and a board of trustees chaired by Shirley Jamieson.
Pupils at Hatton Park Primary thrive in an environment that emphasizes positive relationships and high expectations. They feel supported and encouraged to achieve their best, fostering a sense of belonging and safety. The school promotes strong friendships and celebrates diversity, which enriches the students' experiences. High expectations are set for academic performance, and pupils respond positively, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to producing quality work. Their progress is notable, with many making exceptional strides in their learning. The school culture encourages students to take pride in their achievements and those of their peers, creating a collaborative atmosphere.
Behavior at the school is exemplary, with pupils displaying politeness and respect. The environment is calm and conducive to learning, with minimal disruptions. Younger students quickly learn essential social skills, such as cooperation and sharing, which continue to develop as they grow older. Overall, students are happy and well-prepared for future educational stages.
The school excels in its curriculum, which has been developed in collaboration with trust specialists to ensure it is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are well-informed about the content to be taught and the prior knowledge of their students, allowing them to create effective learning experiences. They provide precise explanations and promptly address any gaps in understanding, ensuring that pupils can complete tasks to a high standard. The depth of knowledge reflected in pupils' written work demonstrates their understanding and ability to connect concepts across subjects.
Reading is a significant focus at Hatton Park, with a culture that encourages regular reading from an early age. Pupils engage with a diverse range of literature, enhancing their cultural understanding. Staff are adept at identifying and supporting students who may struggle with reading, implementing targeted interventions to help them become confident readers.
The school is also committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, making necessary adaptations to ensure they can access the curriculum effectively. This inclusive approach results in strong achievements among these students.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is of high quality, integrated with the school's values. It equips pupils with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Additionally, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that promote wider development, allowing pupils to explore and cultivate their interests.
Staff at Hatton Park are dedicated and feel well-supported in their roles. They appreciate the emphasis on managing workload and the investment in professional development, which enhances their teaching practices.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. This inspection marks the second ungraded evaluation since the school was last judged to be good in May 2014. Overall, Hatton Park Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
