Highlees Primary School, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 25 and 26, 2024. Under the leadership of Principal Melissa Albert, the school is part of The Elliot Foundation Academies Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Hugh Greenway and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Tim Coulson. The school also benefits from the guidance of Executive Principal Sue Lane.
Pupils at Highlees Primary School thrive in a supportive environment where they feel proud to be part of the school community. They develop caring and respectful relationships with one another and are welcoming to new students. The school promotes good behavior, and pupils trust the adults to assist them with any issues they may encounter. Playtimes are well-organized, allowing students to engage in various activities with peers from different year groups. The curriculum has been recently revamped to elevate pupils' ambitions and expectations, incorporating innovative teaching methods such as drama to enhance vocabulary retention and understanding of complex concepts. Students express confidence in their abilities, stating that they can achieve well because their teachers believe in them, which prepares them effectively for the next stages of their education.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities through roles such as school council members and ‘bistro buddies.’ A variety of extracurricular activities, including chess club and football, are available, although there is a recognized need for broader experiences that connect classroom learning to the outside world. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to revisit and build upon their learning from early years, fostering curiosity and interest in education.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Some subjects are undergoing a review of assessment methods to ensure that teachers have the necessary information to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. This is crucial for addressing areas where pupils may struggle to retain information. Teachers are implementing strategies to help students learn and use new vocabulary effectively, particularly benefiting those who speak English as an additional language. The phonics program established in the early years has been successful, with teachers consistently trained to deliver effective reading instruction.
The school prioritizes the social, emotional, and welfare needs of its pupils from the outset. Most students demonstrate a strong commitment to their learning and show respect towards their peers and teachers. The school has implemented effective systems for managing behavior, resulting in a positive atmosphere. A range of clubs is available, but there is a need for more enrichment opportunities that enhance the curriculum and broaden pupils' cultural experiences.
Leaders at Highlees Primary School, including those from the trust, are supportive of staff workload and wellbeing, contributing to a positive working environment. Staff members take pride in their roles, and trustees are equally proud of the school's achievements. Regular monitoring by trust leaders allows for effective support and challenge of school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at Highlees Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To further improve, the school should focus on developing assessment practices in the wider curriculum to identify knowledge gaps and enhance enrichment experiences that deepen learning. Overall, Highlees Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially.
