North Cerney Church of England Primary Academy, located in Gloucestershire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 26 and 27, 2022. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with parents and carers describing it as a family-like environment. Pupils feel safe and happy, and they enjoy their learning experiences. The staff are well-acquainted with the students and their families, allowing them to provide tailored support to meet individual needs.
The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to rise to high expectations. Pupils exhibit positive behavior, with reports indicating that behavior is excellent most of the time. Instances of bullying are rare, and the school promotes Christian values such as courage, respect, curiosity, and perseverance. Educational trips and visits enhance the learning experience, and there are numerous extracurricular clubs available, including a book club, which reflects the school's commitment to a well-rounded education.
Reading is highly valued at North Cerney, with pupils expressing a love for books and enjoying a diverse selection available in the school library. The outdoor environment, particularly the field, is also appreciated by the students. The school emphasizes the importance of student voice, teaching pupils to be responsible citizens and encouraging them to contribute to school life, such as through the eco team’s initiatives to reduce plastic use.
The school has undergone significant staffing changes since the last inspection, and leaders have worked to ensure a broad and ambitious curriculum is in place across all year groups. Subject plans are designed to build skills and knowledge progressively, accommodating mixed-age classes. While the curriculum is well-structured, leaders acknowledge the need for further establishment in all subjects.
Teachers effectively present subject knowledge and encourage pupils to articulate their learning. In mathematics, for instance, pupils are guided to use a structured approach to explain their reasoning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the use of assessment information to build on prior knowledge in some subjects. For example, while pupils can recall historical facts, they may struggle with the skills necessary to analyze history critically.
Science is taught by a specialist teacher, and the curriculum includes practical experiments that enhance learning. Nevertheless, there is recognition that pupils need to develop their scientific investigation skills further. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with a robust program in place that ensures pupils grasp essential reading and spelling skills.
The school has cultivated a strong reading culture, with a focus on instilling a love for reading among pupils. Classrooms are rich in vocabulary, and teachers encourage the use of new words in lessons. High expectations for behavior are consistently maintained, resulting in a positive learning environment with minimal disruption.
Leaders ensure that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, allowing them to access the full curriculum. The school offers a range of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural opportunities, reinforcing its values through daily worship and encouraging respect for the rule of law and democracy.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders providing support to manage workloads effectively. The local governing body and trustees are committed to the school, offering both support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff. Overall, North Cerney Church of England Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
