Horsford CofE VA Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe, knowing that their teachers are dedicated to their well-being. The strong relationships between pupils and staff foster a culture of support, allowing students to seek help whenever needed. The enthusiasm for learning is evident, as pupils actively participate in lessons, demonstrating a keen interest in their education. They respond to questions with eagerness and are attentive listeners, which contributes to a positive classroom atmosphere.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including various sports, national singing competitions, hip hop dance, and sign language classes. These activities not only enhance pupils' confidence but also help them develop important skills. The ‘Charlie Charlie 1’ program is particularly beneficial for older students, teaching them resilience and essential life skills such as CPR and wilderness survival. Community involvement is encouraged, with pupils participating in fundraising and visiting local care homes, which strengthens their connection to the community. Feedback from parents indicates a high level of satisfaction with the education their children receive.
The leadership team has established an ambitious curriculum that is carefully designed to build knowledge progressively from Reception to Year 6. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and introduce new concepts in a structured manner, allowing pupils to practice and revisit prior learning effectively. This approach aids in knowledge retention and application across different subjects. For instance, connections between English and history lessons enrich pupils' understanding of various topics. Collaborative learning is encouraged, with pupils working together to solve problems in mathematics.
Teachers are diligent in assessing pupil progress, using targeted questioning to identify gaps in understanding and misconceptions. This allows for timely interventions to support pupils in their learning journey. Most students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well-supported, although there is a need for more precise guidance for teachers to ensure consistent delivery of support strategies.
Reading is a priority at the school, with improvements noted in phonics standards. The training provided to teachers ensures effective reading instruction, enabling pupils to blend sounds and read fluently. Reading materials are well-matched to pupils' levels, facilitating regular practice and comprehension. However, some reading test results at key stage two were below the national average, prompting leaders to refine the reading curriculum further.
The school promotes an understanding of multiculturalism and global citizenship, teaching pupils to respect diversity and build healthy relationships. Leadership opportunities are available through roles such as heads of house and school council representatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and democratic engagement among students.
Collaboration with parents is strong, contributing to improved attendance rates. Teachers report manageable workloads and feel supported by school leaders. The governing body plays an active role in holding leaders accountable, ensuring that the school remains focused on the best interests of its pupils. Overall, the school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement, with leaders aware of their strengths and areas for development. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to addressing the needs of all students, particularly those with SEND, to enhance their educational experience.
