St Peter and St Paul Church of England Primary Academy in Carbrooke, Thetford, Norfolk, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education and develop strong relationships with peers and staff. The introduction of a new curriculum has raised expectations and improved the quality of education, particularly in mathematics and reading. Pupils are now better equipped to solve problems and reason in mathematics, while the teaching of phonics has enhanced their reading skills from an early age. Older students express enthusiasm for reading and frequently borrow books to read at home.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with pupils responding positively to the high expectations set by adults. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school, indicating that their children are happy and that they would recommend it to others. The school has made significant strides since its last inspection, particularly in the areas of curriculum development and teaching practices. The focus on improving writing skills is evident, with a consistent approach to handwriting and an emphasis on teaching pupils to write for various purposes.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require further attention. The curriculum for subjects beyond English and mathematics is still in the early stages of development, leading to some gaps in pupils' retention of key concepts. Additionally, improvements in the teaching of spelling in key stage one are necessary to ensure that all pupils achieve proficiency by the end of Year two.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they are included in the curriculum and school community. Staff are knowledgeable about the specific needs of these pupils and provide appropriate assistance. The personal development of pupils is a priority, with lessons on diverse lifestyles and beliefs contributing to their understanding of modern Britain.
Extracurricular activities and educational trips are abundant, with most pupils participating in at least one club or activity. The school ensures that disadvantaged pupils have equal opportunities to engage in these experiences. In the early years, staff prepare children well for their future education, instilling high expectations for behaviour and learning.
The recent addition of a nursery has been well-received, with children enjoying the newly developed outdoor learning spaces. Leaders are aware of the nursery's strengths and weaknesses and have plans for further improvement. The school benefits from strong partnerships between staff and parents, with many parents appreciating the collaborative approach to supporting their children's learning.
The governance and leadership of the school are robust, with trust leaders and governors playing a crucial role in driving improvement. They provide valuable training and support to staff, ensuring that high standards are maintained. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to keep pupils safe and vigilant in their duties. Leaders work closely with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and ensure that all necessary checks are conducted for adults working with children.
In summary, St Peter and St Paul Church of England Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, and it continues to build on its successes to enhance the educational experience for all students.
