Cottingham Church of England Primary School, located in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 20, 2024. The headteacher, Ashley Scott, leads the school, which is part of the Peterborough Diocese Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Ruth Walker-Green and a board of trustees chaired by Margaret Holman. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and a nurturing environment, where pupils feel happy and cared for. Students engage in various activities beyond the classroom, such as charity events organized by the Parent-Teacher Association, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve well and make good progress, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to support the holistic development of students, with carefully planned trips and experiences that enhance learning. Positive behavior is a hallmark of the school, with staff and pupils embodying the school’s values. Relationships among pupils and staff are respectful and nurturing, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Pupils demonstrate high levels of engagement in lessons, showing eagerness to participate and take pride in their work. They also appreciate the leadership opportunities available to them, such as participating in the ‘Magnificent Minds’ and ‘Sports Crew’ initiatives.
The school excels in its early years provision, where children in the Reception Year are encouraged to explore their interests through play. The learning environment is well-resourced, and staff foster independence among children, allowing them to concentrate for extended periods. The phonics program is a priority, with staff well-trained to support early reading. The school has invested in a diverse range of reading materials, and story time is a cherished part of the day. The library is well-stocked, and pupils actively participate in selecting and reviewing books.
In mathematics, the school maintains high expectations, focusing on fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and emphasize the use of mathematical vocabulary. Pupils with special educational needs receive effective support, enabling them to access the curriculum and achieve well. The school offers a broad curriculum, although there are some areas where the precise content expectations could be clearer, leading to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. The school is actively working to address this issue.
Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, with an understanding of British values and diverse relationships. They enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and residential trips, which enrich their educational experience. The leadership and management of the school are effective, with staff feeling supported in their roles. The school prioritizes safeguarding, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for.
To improve further, the school needs to clarify the curriculum content in a few subjects to ensure that all pupils acquire the intended knowledge and skills. Leaders are committed to embedding the curriculum and implementing consistent assessment methods to monitor pupil progress effectively. Overall, Cottingham Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
