Great Barton Church of England Primary Academy, located in Suffolk, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on November 14 and 15, 2023, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education, leadership and management, and the behavior and attitudes of pupils were also rated as good, while personal development and early years provision received an outstanding rating.
The school is led by headteacher Claire Ratley and is part of Thedwastre Education Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is managed by CEO Phillip Mackay and a board of trustees chaired by Gary McDonald. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, as it was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020.
The inspection highlighted the warm and caring environment of the school, which fosters a safe space for pupils to thrive. Pupils engage happily with one another, whether during meals or outdoor activities. High standards are set for learning, and pupils consistently strive to meet these expectations, resulting in commendable academic achievements. The curriculum is well-structured, providing a solid foundation for pupils as they progress through their education. In the early years, children are exposed to a rich curriculum that promotes engagement and respect for their surroundings.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance their personal development. They engage enthusiastically in sports, music, and charitable initiatives, taking pride in their roles within the school community, such as serving on the school council or eco-council. The school promotes a culture of mutual respect, and pupils exhibit exemplary behavior. When behavioral issues arise, they are addressed constructively, allowing pupils to learn from their mistakes.
The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils develop strong subject knowledge and skills in a logical sequence. Teachers demonstrate strong subject expertise, clearly explaining new concepts to facilitate understanding. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the support provided to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Some individual targets for these pupils lack precision, which can hinder the effectiveness of adaptations made to their learning activities.
The youngest children in the school are immersed in language-rich experiences, which helps them develop their vocabulary and reading skills. The school ensures that those needing additional support in reading receive targeted assistance, enabling them to catch up quickly. Lessons are typically calm and focused, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes toward their learning.
The school has established a personal development program that supports pupils in their growth and understanding of relationships, mental health, and diversity. Initiatives like the chill and chat club provide opportunities for pupils to build self-confidence. Staff are well-supported, and there is a strong sense of unity among them in their commitment to providing quality education.
The governance structure is effective, with regular communication between the board of trustees and school governors ensuring that they fulfill their responsibilities. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness further, the school needs to focus on refining the support provided to pupils with special educational needs. This includes ensuring that targets are clearly defined and that teaching adaptations are tailored to meet the specific needs of these pupils. Overall, Great Barton Church of England Primary Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
