Old Buckenham Primary School and Nursery, located in Norfolk, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 15 and 16, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Helen Mitchell, the school is part of the Sapientia Education Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Jonathan Taylor and a board of trustees chaired by Peter Rout.
Pupils at Old Buckenham Primary School exhibit politeness and courtesy, taking pride in their school and achievements. They feel a strong sense of belonging and find it easy to make friends. The school environment promotes good behavior, with pupils being ready, respectful, and safe. Classrooms are calm and orderly, reflecting the high expectations set by the staff. Lunchtime activities are diverse, and pupils are well-versed in the school’s values, which include respect, resilience, teamwork, honesty, and communication. The school is described as inclusive, ensuring that all pupils can participate in activities.
The curriculum at Old Buckenham is rich and ambitious, with older pupils expressing positive feedback about recent changes. The new curriculum emphasizes the development of subject-specific vocabulary and encourages pupils to challenge themselves in lessons, fostering high aspirations and achievement. Educational visits and various clubs enhance the learning experience, allowing pupils to represent the school in sports competitions, choir performances, and other events. Leadership roles, such as school prefects and play leaders, are available to pupils, who also have opportunities to suggest improvements for the school environment.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant strides in improving its curriculum. The new leadership team has carefully reviewed and enhanced the curriculum, making it ambitious and progressive. Leaders have selected essential knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn, and most subjects have tasks designed to help children recall and remember new information. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of implementing the new curriculum, which can lead to variations in the quality of pupils' work and learning experiences.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in school life, with leaders regularly checking the effectiveness of their individual plans. These plans include achievable targets, and pupils with SEND are confident in discussing their unique needs and the support they require.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with a consistent approach to phonics instruction. Staff are well-trained in teaching early reading, and routines are established to help pupils concentrate. Those who struggle with reading receive additional support, while proficient readers engage in fluency and comprehension lessons. By the end of Year 6, pupils have been exposed to a wide range of literature.
In the early years, children receive a strong foundation, learning important routines that contribute to their success. The curriculum is presented in engaging ways, encouraging exploration and reflection. Relationships between pupils and staff are built on mutual respect, and the school works closely with families to address attendance barriers.
The school has enriched its curriculum beyond the classroom, offering musical instrument lessons and various clubs that allow pupils to explore new interests. Staff feel valued and supported, appreciating the emphasis on their well-being and workload management. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Old Buckenham Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on inclusivity, high expectations, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
