Histon and Impington Park Primary School, located in Cambridge, has recently undergone an inspection that resulted in an outstanding overall effectiveness rating. The inspection took place on June 25 and 26, 2024, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as good. The headteacher, Jonathan Newman, leads the school, which is part of the Meridian Trust, a multi-academy trust that oversees several schools in the area. The trust is managed by CEO Mark Woods and a board of trustees chaired by Shirley Jamieson, with local governance provided by an academy council chaired by Eleanor Bailey.
The school community is characterized by a strong sense of pride, aspiration, respect, and kindness, encapsulated in the school’s PARK values. Pupils demonstrate a commitment to their education, actively participating in lessons and striving for excellence in their work. Achievements are celebrated through house points and awards, which bolster students' self-esteem and motivation. The curriculum is designed to engage students deeply, with a focus on developing their knowledge and skills across various subjects. For instance, Year 2 pupils exhibit an understanding of artistic techniques, while Year 5 pupils engage in discussions about historical figures.
Respect for others is a fundamental aspect of the school culture, with pupils encouraged to embrace diversity and support one another. The school provides numerous opportunities for students to showcase their talents through performances, which not only enhance their confidence but also foster a supportive community among peers, parents, and staff. Acts of kindness are commonplace, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment where friendships flourish. Older students take on mentorship roles, guiding younger pupils, and play leaders organize inclusive games during recess.
The partnership between trust and school leaders is robust, facilitating the sharing of expertise and resources that benefit the entire school community. Teachers collaborate with colleagues from other schools within the trust to develop well-structured lessons that align with the trust’s curriculum. This collaborative approach ensures consistency while allowing for flexibility to meet the unique needs of the school. The governance structure is effective, with trustees and academy councillors actively involved in decision-making processes that prioritize student learning and development.
The curriculum is meticulously crafted, with clear objectives for each subject area. Teachers receive ongoing professional development, including coaching from experienced leaders, which enhances their teaching practices. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, implementing structured phonics programs and whole-class reading initiatives that promote vocabulary development and comprehension skills. The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, fostering independence and curiosity in young learners through engaging activities that connect personal experiences to broader concepts.
The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, working closely with parents and external partners to provide tailored support. Staff are trained to adapt materials and teaching strategies to ensure all pupils can participate fully in lessons, thereby enhancing their confidence and academic success.
Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with a strong foundation laid from the early years. Staff effectively teach children how to conduct themselves in a learning environment, ensuring that lessons are conducive to academic growth. The school also prioritizes safeguarding, with effective measures in place to protect the welfare of all students.
Overall, Histon and Impington Park Primary School stands out for its commitment to excellence in education, fostering a community where pupils thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The school’s dedication to nurturing confident, capable, and compassionate individuals is evident in the positive experiences of its students and the strong support from parents and the wider community.
