Hunts Grove Primary Academy, located in Gloucester, has recently undergone an inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024, and has been rated as good overall. The school is part of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, which provides support and oversight to ensure high educational standards. The headteacher, Glenn Philcox, leads a dedicated team that fosters a positive learning environment where pupils feel proud to belong. The school emphasizes high expectations and encourages students to take on responsibilities, contributing to their development as responsible young individuals.
Pupils at Hunts Grove Primary express enthusiasm for their education, particularly highlighting the supportive and caring nature of the staff. The school promotes a respectful atmosphere that celebrates achievements and provides guidance when challenges arise. A notable strength of the school is its commitment to developing strong reading skills among all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Reading is central to the curriculum, and students engage eagerly with various authors and books, making reading time a highlight of their day. This focus on literacy has resulted in pupils achieving well and being well-prepared for their future educational steps.
The leadership and management of the school are recognized as outstanding, with clear roles and responsibilities established among staff. The trust provides valuable expertise that helps maintain high expectations and a clear vision for the school. Staff members report high levels of job satisfaction and benefit from quality professional development, which equips them to deliver the curriculum effectively. New teachers receive strong support, and subject leaders are knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that staff develop their subject knowledge over time.
The curriculum is well-structured, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics, with effective phonics teaching. However, some foundation subjects, such as geography, require further development to ensure that pupils gain a deeper understanding of key concepts. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to achieve ambitious goals. Disadvantaged pupils also benefit from targeted strategies that help them succeed academically.
While most pupils enjoy school and attend regularly, there are a few with persistently low attendance. The school has strong partnerships with families, which aids in understanding the reasons behind low attendance. However, there is a need for a clearer overview of the impact of actions taken to improve attendance for these pupils. The school aims to ensure that effective strategies are in place to address this issue.
Pupils appreciate the values promoted within the school, which support their development as active members of society. They demonstrate an understanding of respect for individuals with protected characteristics. Additionally, pupils are enthusiastic about the extracurricular clubs and activities available, although some have expressed a desire for a wider variety of options.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hunts Grove Primary are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in embedding the curriculum across all subjects and enhancing attendance strategies. Overall, Hunts Grove Primary Academy provides a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
