Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Newton Regis CofE Primary School on 3 July 2019, following its previous judgment of good in June 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team, under the headteacher Lee Kilkenny, has established a clear and ambitious direction for the school since his appointment in September 2016. The headteacher and deputy headteacher have effectively strengthened teaching quality through diligent support and training for staff, fostering a positive and purposeful school environment. The ethos of the school is reflected in its motto, Living life in all its fullness, which is evident in the diverse experiences provided for pupils.
Parents express overwhelming positivity about the school, noting how well pupils are nurtured and developed. Comments from parents highlight the kindness and approachability of staff, as well as the inclusive atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging. Pupils are described as charming and well-mannered, with positive attitudes towards learning. The school has achieved above-average standards in reading and mathematics at the end of key stage two, and efforts are underway to improve results at key stage one, particularly in spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
The school has addressed key issues from the previous inspection, with most-able pupils achieving well by the end of key stage two. The monitoring of teaching is thorough, with staff receiving constructive feedback to enhance their practice. The well-being of both staff and pupils is prioritized, contributing to a supportive school culture. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a strong culture of safety within the school. Staff are well-trained, and pupils are educated on various aspects of safety, including internet safety.
The inspection identified early reading as a key area for improvement. The teaching of phonics has significantly improved, with the proportion of pupils reaching the expected standard now in line with national averages. However, there are concerns regarding the matching of reading materials to pupils' phonics knowledge, which affects the progress of some pupils, particularly those struggling with reading. Outcomes in early years are improving, with children receiving ample opportunities to develop their writing and mathematics skills through engaging activities.
Attendance has been a focus for improvement, with effective systems in place to support families and enhance attendance rates. The overall attendance is just below the national average, but there has been a significant reduction in the number of pupils with low attendance. The curriculum is vibrant and enriched with hands-on learning experiences, fostering creativity and community engagement. Pupils participate in various events and competitions, showcasing their skills and raising funds for charitable causes.
Next steps for the school include ensuring that teachers consistently apply their skills in early reading to facilitate good progress, accelerating pupils' progress in spelling, grammar, and punctuation, and developing the skills of middle leaders to enhance their impact on school improvement priorities. The inspection findings reflect a school that is committed to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils and staff.
