Clenchwarton Primary School, located in King's Lynn, Norfolk, has recently undergone an inspection on 22 and 23 October 2024. The school is led by executive headteacher Joanne Borley and is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Andrew Johnson and a board of trustees chaired by Roger Livesey. The inspection results indicate that the school provides a good quality of education, with outstanding ratings in personal development and early years provision. Behaviour and attitudes, as well as leadership and management, are also rated as good.
Pupils at Clenchwarton Primary School express pride in attending this inclusive and welcoming institution. The school demonstrates ambition for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils achieve well, particularly in the early years, where children develop into curious and focused learners. The school fosters warm and respectful relationships, with high expectations for behaviour and learning, contributing to a calm and purposeful environment. Social interactions among pupils are harmonious, and older students take on leadership roles to support younger peers.
The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including sports, art, and music clubs. Pupils have opportunities to engage in leadership roles, such as becoming junior leaders or school councillors, and they participate in competitions that enhance their confidence and recognition. The school’s initiatives, such as the ‘Brilliant Club’ and graduation at Cambridge University, help to elevate pupils' aspirations and provide them with valuable experiences.
The curriculum at Clenchwarton Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge year after year. The early years provision is particularly strong, with high expectations set for children from the outset. This approach ensures that no time is wasted, and children benefit from expert teaching and well-planned activities. Reading is prioritized, with trained staff effectively delivering the phonics programme, enabling pupils to become fluent and confident readers. However, there is a noted need for improvement in writing skills, as the school has not set clear expectations for writing across the curriculum, which affects some pupils' ability to communicate their learning effectively.
Teaching staff employ clear and consistent methods across subjects, introducing new knowledge and connecting it to prior learning. This approach helps pupils develop a deep understanding over time. Pupils with special educational needs receive tailored support, ensuring they can access the same curriculum content as their peers and make strong progress.
Behaviour in the school is generally positive, with established routines and expectations that support good conduct. The school’s commitment to personal development is exceptional, providing pupils with experiences that promote understanding of equality, diversity, and health. Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, demonstrating mature views on various social issues.
Governance at the school is effective, with trustees actively supporting and challenging school leaders. Staff appreciate the focus on professional development, which enhances their ability to deliver the curriculum. Parents express positive views about the school’s welcoming atmosphere and the quality of education provided.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, to improve further, the school needs to prioritize the development of writing skills beyond the early years, ensuring that all pupils can communicate their learning in an age-appropriate manner. Overall, Clenchwarton Primary School is a strong educational institution that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
