Great Staughton Primary Academy is a small, friendly school located in Great Staughton, Cambridgeshire. The school has been recognized for its positive environment where pupils feel happy and valued. The sense of community is strong, with students and parents describing the school as a big family. Pupils demonstrate good behavior, adhere to school rules, and show a genuine desire to learn. They engage well with staff and each other, fostering a supportive atmosphere. The school emphasizes kindness and understanding of diversity, with bullying being rare and effectively managed when it occurs.
The curriculum at Great Staughton Primary Academy has been continuously improved since the last inspection. Leaders have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum tailored to the needs of a small school. Subject leaders have carefully sequenced curriculum plans from Nursery to Year 6, ensuring that pupils build their knowledge progressively. For example, in mathematics, children in Reception develop their vocabulary related to numbers and shapes, which prepares them for more complex concepts in later years. Teachers are attentive to pupils' learning and use in-class assessments to identify and address gaps in knowledge.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the school has adapted its curriculum to help pupils catch up on missed learning, particularly in physical education. The nursery program effectively prepares children for Reception, with a well-structured curriculum that supports their development. Reading is prioritized across the school, with a phonics program that builds pupils' confidence and fluency in reading. Pupils are encouraged to read a variety of books, which enhances their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
The school provides effective support for pupils who may struggle with their learning, ensuring that those with special educational needs and disabilities achieve well. Staff are knowledgeable about the phonics program and work diligently to help weaker readers improve. New curriculum leaders are being supported to ensure that the quality of education remains high, although some areas of the curriculum are still being refined.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior, with clear routines leading to a calm learning environment. The school has effective processes in place to manage behavior, and good behavior is recognized and rewarded. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential topics that prepare pupils for life in modern Britain. The school promotes inclusivity and celebrates diversity, particularly in its approach to LGBT+ issues.
Leaders prioritize staff well-being and development, ensuring that teachers have access to tailored professional development opportunities. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff receiving up-to-date training and clear procedures for reporting concerns. The school works closely with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils.
While the school continues to perform well, there are areas for improvement. Changes in curriculum leadership and the impact of the pandemic have led to inconsistencies in the implementation of some curriculum plans. Leaders are encouraged to further develop subject leadership to ensure a consistently strong curriculum across all subjects. Overall, Great Staughton Primary Academy remains a good school, with a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a nurturing environment for its pupils.
