Isle of Ely Primary School, located in Ely, Cambridgeshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school is well-regarded by its pupils, who adhere to the core principles of being ready, respectful, and safe. Students demonstrate a readiness to learn, actively engaging with their teachers and showing a strong retention of knowledge. Younger students exhibit impressive counting skills, while older pupils express enthusiasm for historical topics and various religions, reflecting a broad understanding of the world that fosters respect for diversity.
Behavior among pupils is generally positive, with lunchtime activities organized by staff promoting engagement and teamwork. The school environment encourages exploration and competition, with pupils earning recognition for demonstrating school values through house points and awards from the headteacher. Regular assemblies and lessons educate students about bullying, empowering them to report incidents and ensuring that staff take allegations seriously, providing necessary support to maintain a safe environment.
Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with leaders ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to deliver phonics instruction effectively. Teachers assess pupils' progress to provide appropriate reading materials, fostering a love for reading among students. The school library is a popular space where pupils enjoy spending their free time immersed in books. The curriculum is designed thoughtfully, allowing pupils to connect new knowledge with prior learning, enhancing their understanding across subjects.
While many teachers demonstrate effective instructional practices, some do not consistently check for understanding, which can lead to confusion among pupils. This inconsistency can hinder learning outcomes for some students. Leaders have recently revamped their approach to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, establishing clear systems for tracking progress and deploying additional support effectively.
The school has implemented a straightforward behavior management system that is well understood by both staff and pupils. Assemblies focused on school values help reinforce positive behavior, and when issues arise, staff utilize the behavior system effectively to guide pupils toward improvement. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, which are well-received by pupils and parents alike. These activities, including a large school choir, provide opportunities for students to engage in the community and develop leadership skills through roles such as house captains.
Leaders are proactive in managing change and supporting staff with their workloads, which has contributed to a positive working environment. Staff appreciate the time allocated for completing tasks, such as preparing school reports. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with leaders ensuring thorough record-keeping and staff training to identify and report concerns effectively. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and feel confident in seeking help when needed.
To further enhance the quality of education, it is essential for leaders to ensure that all teachers consistently deliver the curriculum effectively and check for understanding rigorously. This will help to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Isle of Ely Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students, fostering a love of learning and a strong sense of community.