Norwich Primary Academy is a school that provides a strong educational experience for its pupils. The curriculum is designed to enhance learning and retention, enabling students to engage enthusiastically and confidently with their studies. High expectations for behavior are set by the leadership, and most pupils adhere to these standards, understanding the rationale behind school rules. Disruptions during lessons are infrequent, and students feel safe and well-supported. Feedback from parents and staff corroborates this positive environment, with bullying being reported as rare. Pupils express trust in their teachers, confident that any concerns will be addressed appropriately.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, fostering a sense of community and cultural awareness among students. They learn about equality and demonstrate respect for one another. The leadership encourages pupils to aspire to opportunities within their community and beyond, contributing to their development as confident and resilient individuals. The school’s commitment to inclusivity is evident, with all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receiving the support they need to thrive.
The leadership team is aware of the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire by the time they leave the school. The curriculum emphasizes reading proficiency, knowledge acquisition, and meaningful experiences. Many students enter the school with limited exposure to books and language, but the introduction of engaging literature in the early years lays a strong foundation for their literacy development. The carefully curated ‘NPA 100 books’ initiative inspires a love for reading, and pupils are enthusiastic about discussing their favorite authors and their works.
Phonics instruction is well-structured, allowing pupils to develop strong reading skills and catch up quickly if necessary. Daily assessments ensure that learning is tailored to meet the needs of each student. The positive impact of the reading curriculum is evident in the significant improvements in pupils' reading skills over the past year. Teachers effectively help students connect new learning to prior knowledge, enhancing their understanding across subjects.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Some subjects lack the depth of skill development seen in English, and there are inconsistencies in the presentation of pupils' writing across different subjects. Leaders must ensure that all teachers maintain high expectations for writing quality and presentation. Additionally, opportunities for pupils to practice problem-solving and reasoning in mathematics are currently limited, and leaders should prioritize providing these experiences.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, allowing them to access the full curriculum and develop confidence alongside their peers. Reception children quickly adapt to routines and engage in well-planned lessons that promote their growth.
The leadership team shares a vision for a rich and ambitious curriculum, and staff collaborate with curriculum specialists to enhance their subject knowledge. This has led to improvements in teaching and learning across key areas. Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective checks in place for all adults working with children. The pastoral team is skilled in helping pupils manage their behavior, contributing to a positive school atmosphere.
Overall, Norwich Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a supportive environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for growth to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
