St Nicholas Church of England Primary School, located in Cottesmore, Oakham, Rutland, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 19, 2023. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where teachers and leaders know each pupil individually. Each morning, pupils express their feelings using emotion dolls, allowing teachers to address any concerns and ensure that students feel safe and happy. This practice fosters resilience among pupils, encouraging them to learn from their mistakes and strive for success.
The school promotes good manners and respect among pupils, who adhere to school rules and respond positively to teachers' high expectations. While occasional conflicts may arise, teachers manage these situations effectively, ensuring that pupils understand the unacceptability of bullying and that it will be dealt with promptly. The majority of parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, highlighting the supportive atmosphere created by the staff.
The curriculum at St Nicholas has been adapted to be broad and ambitious, with all pupils engaged in a well-structured learning journey that outlines essential knowledge and concepts across subjects. However, some areas require improvement, particularly in ensuring that teachers assess prior learning effectively, as this can impact the depth of understanding in certain foundation subjects. Teachers utilize knowledge organizers to present key information and engage pupils in discussions, but there are instances where recall activities do not align perfectly with the curriculum, leading to gaps in knowledge retention.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with their needs accurately identified and addressed through effective strategies. The school emphasizes early reading skills, with trained staff implementing consistent and effective teaching methods. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may be falling behind, allowing for timely interventions. The reading curriculum is designed to foster a love for reading, with each year group exposed to a variety of texts that align with their studies.
In the early years, children are introduced to foundational concepts in mathematics and language, helping them develop a strong understanding of the world around them. Pupils exhibit positive behavior and take pride in their achievements, which are celebrated in weekly assemblies. The school encourages pupils to contribute positively to the community through initiatives like the courageous advocacy program, where they engage in activities that promote community cohesion.
Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, ensuring that new initiatives benefit pupils while considering the impact on staff. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with vigilant staff who report and record any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school maintains a strong safeguarding culture, with detailed records of actions taken to protect pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that all teachers consistently check pupils' understanding of essential knowledge and build on prior learning in foundation subjects. This will help all pupils achieve a deeper understanding of the curriculum. Overall, St Nicholas Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
