Holy Cross Church of England Primary School, located in Runcton Holme, King's Lynn, Norfolk, underwent an inspection on July 18 and 19, 2023. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision all received a Good rating.
Pupils at Holy Cross enjoy a positive and inclusive environment where they learn and play together harmoniously. The school fosters a sense of community, making new students feel welcome and integrated quickly. Adults set high expectations for hard work and good behavior, which most pupils meet. Many students aspire to be recognized as the 'star learner' of the week, taking pride in their achievements during assemblies. Pupils also engage in various roles, such as school ambassadors and sports leaders, which they take seriously. The school offers numerous extracurricular activities, including sporting competitions and clubs, which help students develop independence and broaden their experiences beyond the classroom.
The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils retain important knowledge across subjects, with teachers delivering lessons in a logical sequence. This approach allows students to build on their existing knowledge, leading to a comprehensive understanding of the material. Early years education is equally ambitious, focusing on developing independence and social skills. The youngest children are immersed in language-rich activities, preparing them well for their transition to Year 1.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with skilled adults teaching phonics effectively. This emphasis enables pupils to read widely and for enjoyment as they progress through the school. The recently refurbished library provides an inviting space for students to explore books, and those who struggle with reading receive appropriate support to help them catch up.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are included in the same curriculum as their peers, with teachers making necessary adaptations. However, there are instances where the support provided does not yield the desired outcomes, indicating a need for more specific guidance for teachers on how to assist these pupils effectively.
The school environment is generally calm and orderly, with most pupils displaying good behavior. For those who require additional support, adults are effective in providing guidance. Attendance has improved, but there remains a significant minority of pupils who are persistently absent, which hinders their learning.
The personal development program is well-structured, helping pupils understand healthy relationships and celebrate diversity. Students engage in various charitable activities, fostering a sense of responsibility and citizenship. The leadership team has successfully merged two school communities, establishing a shared vision and values that everyone embraces. Trustees and leaders maintain an accurate view of the school, providing effective challenges to drive further improvements.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff receiving regular training to identify and address potential risks to pupils. The school ensures that all pre-employment checks are conducted in accordance with statutory guidelines, and pupils are educated on how to stay safe, particularly online.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the targets set for some pupils with SEND need to be more precise to enhance their learning outcomes. Additionally, tailored strategies to improve attendance for persistently absent pupils are necessary to ensure they benefit fully from their education. Overall, Holy Cross Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
