New Road Primary and Nursery School in Whittlesey, Peterborough, has received a positive inspection report, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on November 30 and December 1, 2021, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is committed to providing a supportive and ambitious environment for its pupils, fostering happiness and politeness among students. Parents have expressed satisfaction, noting that their children enjoy attending school and feel encouraged to work hard.
The school has established clear rules that promote a safe and respectful atmosphere. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and have a strong understanding of right and wrong. They feel secure in approaching staff with any concerns, contributing to a positive school culture. The school has effectively minimized low-level disruptions in classrooms, allowing for uninterrupted learning. Bullying is not tolerated, and pupils are confident that any incidents would be addressed promptly by staff.
The curriculum at New Road is well-planned and designed to build on pupils' existing knowledge, ensuring that they achieve well over time. It caters to the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding, enabling them to provide necessary support. However, there are instances where classroom activities do not align with the intended curriculum, leading to potential misunderstandings among pupils. Leaders have recognized this as an area for improvement.
Reading is a priority at New Road, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for literature from an early age. Daily phonics sessions and comprehension practice help pupils become confident readers. The school promotes good relationships between staff and pupils, contributing to a conducive learning environment with minimal disruptions.
The school also emphasizes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, educating pupils about various faiths and cultures. Workshops have been organized to enhance understanding of equality, and pupils have expressed that they feel heard in discussions about curriculum content, including the incorporation of Black history.
Pupils are encouraged to maintain their physical and mental health, with opportunities to participate in external events and a variety of after-school sports clubs. The support for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with regular assessments ensuring that their needs are met effectively.
Governance at New Road is strong, with governors and trustees actively involved in supporting the school's development. They recognize the challenges faced by leaders, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prioritize staff development and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety in the school. Staff are well-trained to identify signs of harm and are proactive in addressing concerns. Pupils are educated on online safety and know how to seek help if they feel unsafe.
To further improve, leaders need to ensure that pupils consistently make connections between different areas of learning and that teachers receive ongoing subject-specific training to enhance their knowledge. This will help prevent misconceptions and ensure that all pupils can apply their learning in more complex ways. Overall, New Road Primary and Nursery School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils.
