Tilney All Saints Church of England Primary School in Norfolk has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The strong sense of community is evident, with pupils expressing enjoyment in attending the school and confidence in the support they receive from staff. The school promotes values such as peace, joy, and forgiveness, which are reflected in the behavior and attitudes of the pupils. They are encouraged to work hard and behave well, with opportunities to earn certificates for demonstrating these values.
The quality of education at the school is commendable, particularly in early reading. From the start in Reception, children are taught phonics using a consistent approach, enabling them to learn sounds quickly and effectively. Most pupils in key stage one read confidently and fluently, and older pupils recognize the importance of reading. The selection of books read aloud by teachers not only inspires pupils but also complements the English curriculum.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully developed by school leaders, who have outlined clear expectations for what pupils should learn across most subjects. Pupils are encouraged to use ambitious vocabulary, and they demonstrate a good understanding of various concepts in subjects like science and art. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum is not as well developed, leading to some gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to improve the situation.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders collaborate with parents to identify challenges faced by these pupils and ensure that appropriate adaptations are made to their learning activities. Regular checks are conducted to ensure that these pupils retain the curriculum content, and adjustments are made as necessary to support their learning.
In the early years, children develop positive relationships with staff and peers. Staff focus on enhancing children's vocabulary, language, and mathematical understanding through carefully planned activities that complement teacher-led sessions. This approach ensures that children are well-prepared for their future learning.
The school also emphasizes the importance of understanding diversity and mutual respect. Pupils learn about different types of relationships and have opportunities to contribute to school life through various roles and responsibilities. However, there is a need for more opportunities for younger pupils to take on responsibilities, which would allow them to engage more fully in the school community.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors and trustees providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. They ensure that leaders have access to professional development and training, which staff appreciate. The positive relationships between staff and leaders contribute to a supportive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety established within the school. Staff are well-trained to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, and there are clear processes in place for reporting issues. The personal, social, and health education curriculum teaches pupils about online safety and how to protect themselves.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that the specific knowledge required in all subjects is clearly outlined and sequenced logically. Additionally, providing more opportunities for younger pupils to take on responsibilities will enhance their engagement in the school community. Overall, Tilney All Saints Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
