Cedars Park Community Primary School in Stowmarket, Suffolk, has recently undergone an inspection on June 27 and 28, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils at Cedars Park enjoy a vibrant and welcoming environment that fosters their interests through various clubs and trips, encouraging regular attendance. They take pride in their achievements, such as being recognized for selling the most poppies for Remembrance Sunday. The school promotes leadership opportunities, with pupils eager to take on roles such as school councillors and house captains. This involvement helps them develop a foundational understanding of democracy and resilience, preparing them for future responsibilities.
The school’s motto,
o limit to learning, resonates with the pupils, motivating them to strive for excellence in their studies. In lessons, pupils demonstrate focus and diligence, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Behaviour throughout the school is generally calm and orderly, with pupils understanding the established behaviour zones that encourage appropriate conduct. The strong relationships between pupils and staff create a safe environment where pupils feel supported and confident in reporting any concerns, including rare instances of bullying.
Leaders at Cedars Park have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that pupils build on their knowledge and skills over time. For instance, in physical education, younger pupils learn fundamental skills that older pupils refine through team sports. Teachers possess the necessary subject knowledge to effectively convey complex concepts, regularly assessing pupils' understanding and providing additional support as needed. This approach has resulted in sound progress for pupils, with many achieving high standards.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with staff receiving training to deliver a high-quality reading curriculum. The systematic phonics programme is implemented effectively, enabling pupils to develop their reading skills with confidence. The availability of books that align with the phonics taught further supports their learning. Leaders monitor pupils' progress closely, ensuring that they receive appropriate support to keep pace with their learning.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-designed, allowing children to manage routines independently and engage in meaningful learning experiences. However, there are instances where excessive guidance from adults may limit children's ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skills fully. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is comprehensive, promoting acceptance and understanding of diversity among pupils.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some parents have expressed concerns regarding communication from the school, feeling disconnected from their children's education. Leaders are encouraged to enhance their communication strategies to foster stronger partnerships with parents. Additionally, ensuring that activities in the early years are appropriately challenging and structured will help children better demonstrate their learning capabilities.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cedars Park are effective, with a strong emphasis on keeping pupils safe. Staff receive regular training to identify potential risks, and robust systems are in place to address any concerns promptly. The school prioritizes emotional well-being through pastoral support, teaching pupils about safety and online risks.
Overall, Cedars Park Community Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils.
