The Norman Church of England Primary School in Northwold, Norfolk, has recently undergone an inspection on September 19 and 20, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Anna Fisher, leads the school, which is part of the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Adrian Ball and a board of trustees chaired by Helen Jackson.
The school fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued. Many students express enjoyment in attending the school, which offers a broad and stimulating curriculum. The school has high expectations for its pupils, and the majority meet these expectations, achieving well in their studies. The behaviour of pupils is commendable, with a strong emphasis on respect and kindness. The school's behaviour code, which promotes being respectful, ready, and safe, is effectively integrated into daily school life, contributing to a positive learning environment.
Pupils are actively involved in their school community, participating in decision-making processes and fundraising activities. They also engage in peer support, with older students helping younger ones, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community. The school encourages pupils to express their views through the school council, enhancing their sense of belonging and agency.
The curriculum has been significantly improved, with a well-structured approach that outlines the knowledge pupils will acquire year by year, starting from the early years. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding during lessons, allowing them to adapt their teaching to address any gaps in knowledge. This approach is particularly beneficial for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can learn alongside their peers.
Reading and phonics are prioritized, with a consistent and effective teaching approach. Staff receive training to support the delivery of a well-structured phonics program, enabling pupils to develop their reading skills from an early age. The school provides parents with resources to support reading at home, contributing to pupils' rapid progress in literacy.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Pupils have expressed a desire for more extracurricular activities, including trips and clubs, to enhance their learning experiences and personal development. The current offerings do not sufficiently broaden their understanding of the wider world or prepare them for life in modern Britain. The school is encouraged to expand these opportunities to enrich pupils' cultural knowledge and personal growth.
The school maintains effective communication with parents and carers, who generally hold positive views about the education their children receive. The governance structure, with regular oversight from the trust, ensures that the school is held accountable for its progress and development.
Overall, the Norman Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. The positive relationships among pupils and staff, along with the ambitious curriculum, contribute to a strong foundation for learning. Continued focus on expanding extracurricular opportunities will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.
