Heartsease Primary Academy in Norwich, Norfolk, was inspected on 11 and 12 July 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a good standard of education, behavior, personal development, leadership, and early years provision since its previous outstanding inspection. Pupils at Heartsease are encouraged to be independent, polite, and respectful citizens, with staff modeling these values effectively. Clear expectations for conduct are established, resulting in good behavior in classrooms and minimal disruption to learning. Pupils demonstrate kindness and good manners, and older students take pride in their roles as play leaders, organizing games for younger peers.
The school has a strong anti-bullying culture, with pupils reporting that bullying is not tolerated. They understand what constitutes bullying and know whom to approach with concerns. The pastoral team is well-trained and provides excellent support for pupils' social and emotional well-being. Pupils express feeling safe and happy at school, with many eager to attend daily for fear of missing important lessons. They enjoy making friends and take pride in their work, developing a love for reading from an early age. A variety of clubs and activities are available, allowing pupils to explore new interests and talents.
Leaders have prioritized the development of a broad and ambitious curriculum, with well-sequenced plans in most subjects that outline key knowledge and vocabulary for pupils. This structured approach helps pupils retain learning from early years through to Year 6, preparing them for future educational stages. Pupils take pride in their learning, and teachers actively check understanding, providing constructive feedback. However, some foundation subjects are still under development, and teachers in these areas may not present knowledge as clearly, which can hinder pupils' retention of important information.
In early years, children engage in activities that support their learning across the curriculum, with a focus on developing communication and language skills. Phonics lessons are effective, enabling pupils to learn new sounds confidently. Those at risk of falling behind receive additional support to ensure they catch up. Older pupils enjoy reading and engage in discussions about the books they explore in class, which fosters a deeper understanding of social issues and rules.
While the school has made strides in reducing bullying and disruptive behavior, there are still some pupils who use derogatory language, which can create discomfort among peers. Staff support personal development well, teaching pupils about different cultures and the importance of accepting differences. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are included in school life and receive tailored support through specialized classes.
Leaders are attentive to staff workload and provide support that enhances teachers' expertise and confidence. Trustees maintain a strong understanding of the school and hold leaders accountable for educational quality, ensuring decisions reflect an inclusive ethos. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils participate in safety activities, learning to protect themselves in various situations.
To improve, the school should continue developing curriculum plans in foundation subjects to ensure teachers have a clear understanding of key knowledge and how it builds over time. Additionally, addressing the behavior of a minority of pupils who do not adhere to school expectations will help foster a more positive environment for all. Overall, Heartsease Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
