Eyrescroft Primary School in Bretton, Peterborough, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 4 and 5, 2022. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good.
The school is described as a welcoming environment where pupils feel supported and valued. Positive relationships among pupils and staff contribute to a nurturing community. Pupils express a strong sense of respect for one another, acknowledging their differences while emphasizing the importance of treating everyone equally. The high expectations set by staff encourage pupils to engage actively in their learning, and the curriculum is designed to prepare them well for future educational stages.
Pupils demonstrate a keen interest in their studies and generally maintain focus during lessons. The school promotes cooperative behaviour, with pupils supporting each other and showing politeness towards adults. The behaviour of pupils is commendable, both in classrooms and during playtimes. They feel secure in reporting any instances of bullying, confident that staff will address any issues promptly, which contributes to a safe and happy school atmosphere.
Leaders at Eyrescroft Primary School have developed an ambitious curriculum that begins in the early years. They have carefully identified essential content to ensure a strong educational foundation for pupils. In the early years, children benefit from a mix of adult-led sessions and opportunities for independent exploration, which fosters engagement and learning. The curriculum is structured to build knowledge progressively, allowing pupils to revisit and apply what they have learned over time.
While the curriculum has been improved to meet the needs of all pupils, there are instances where teachers do not fully utilize curriculum plans, leading to challenges in teaching key concepts effectively. This can result in some pupils struggling to grasp important ideas. Leaders recognize this as an area for development and are working to address it.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a well-planned and resourced approach to ensure all pupils become fluent readers by the time they leave. Younger pupils participate in daily phonics sessions, while older pupils practice comprehension skills. The school has invested in high-quality reading materials, ensuring that pupils have access to books that suit their needs. Teachers use assessments to identify areas where pupils may need additional support, fostering confidence and fluency in reading.
Pupils generally exhibit good behaviour and engagement in lessons, with minimal disruption. However, there are occasions when learning routines are not effectively established, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all staff are equipped to manage behaviour and set clear expectations.
The school promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development through a diverse curriculum that includes discussions on relationships and online safety. Pupils enjoy learning about various communities and participate in a range of activities that build their confidence and independence. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with clear processes in place for identifying needs and providing appropriate resources.
Governance at the school is strong, with trustees recognizing the challenges faced and prioritizing professional development for teachers. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and clear procedures for reporting concerns. Pupils feel safe and are educated on various safety topics, including internet safety.
Overall, Eyrescroft Primary School has made commendable progress, creating a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its development and address the identified areas for improvement.
