Archbishop Cranmer Church of England Academy, located in Aslockton, Nottinghamshire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on December 6 and 7, 2023. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, reflecting its commitment to providing high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as outstanding.
The headteacher, Melanie Stevens, leads the school, which is part of the Aspire Multi-Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Kate Watson and a board of trustees chaired by Peter Golightly. This inspection marked the first under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected in this capacity since its conversion to an academy in February 2014.
Pupils at Archbishop Cranmer Primary Academy experience a rich and broad curriculum that is deeply rooted in the school’s values. The school fosters an environment where students feel welcomed and valued, promoting a strong sense of community. Pupils express pride in their school, stating that it is a place where everyone can fit in and be accepted. Respect among students and staff is evident, and pupils actively participate in making a positive difference in their school environment.
The school places a strong emphasis on character development, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future. The ethos of ‘Take Care’ is integral to the school’s approach, with students feeling cherished and supported. Safety is a priority, and pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of how to stay safe, particularly in online environments. The transition for younger children into the school is smooth, aided by the support of older pupils, fostering lasting friendships.
Parents and carers appreciate the school’s broad curriculum and the nurturing approach taken towards their children. Many express that the school has exceeded their expectations, highlighting the positive impact it has on their children’s education and well-being.
The school excels in identifying and addressing the additional needs of its pupils. Staff work closely with parents and external organizations to ensure that support is tailored to each student’s requirements. This collaborative approach has resulted in strong progress for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is meticulously planned, with a focus on knowledge that supports pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Opportunities to learn about British values are embedded throughout the curriculum, enabling pupils to understand and apply these concepts in real-life situations.
In early years, high expectations are set for all children, leading to swift progress in foundational skills such as phonics. The school ensures that any child requiring additional support receives it promptly, contributing to the overall success in early reading. The teaching staff are adept at adapting their methods to meet the diverse needs of their pupils, ensuring that all students learn effectively together.
Pupils are engaged and enthusiastic about their learning, demonstrating fluency in recalling number facts and applying them to problem-solving. The school’s approach to teaching is efficient, with minimal time wasted and immediate addressing of misconceptions. New English speakers also make rapid progress, benefiting from the supportive learning environment.
A wide range of extracurricular activities is available, encouraging pupils to participate and engage with the community. The school actively promotes involvement in clubs and events, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility among students. Leadership opportunities are abundant, allowing pupils to take on various roles and contribute to school life.
Staff morale is high, with a strong sense of teamwork and support among colleagues. The management of workload is effective, ensuring that staff can focus on delivering quality education without undue stress. Governors and trustees play an active role in monitoring the school’s progress and supporting its continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at Archbishop Cranmer Church of England Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, creating a nurturing and enriching environment for all its pupils.
