Milton Church of England Primary School, located in Cambridge, has recently undergone an inspection that resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on November 23 and 24, 2023, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as inadequate. The headteacher, Damien Homden, leads the school, which is part of The Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Adrian Ball and a board of trustees chaired by Helen Jackson.
Pupils at Milton Church of England Primary School express high levels of satisfaction with their educational experience. They appreciate the engaging and informative lessons provided by their teachers, often describing their learning as amazing and fascinating. The curriculum includes a strong emphasis on literature, with students particularly enjoying works by authors such as Dickens and Shakespeare. Subjects like science, art, and physical education also receive enthusiastic responses from the pupils, who value the opportunity to revisit previously learned material to reinforce their understanding.
The school promotes positive behavior through its established rules and initiatives like the '123 Magic' approach, which encourages good behavior choices. Pupils feel safe and supported, trusting that adults will assist them with any concerns. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs for chess, gymnastics, choir, and dance, as well as popular football programs supported by local coaches. Students look forward to residential trips and educational excursions, which enhance their learning experiences.
The inspection highlighted the positive changes implemented by school leaders, who have effectively addressed previous concerns. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, prioritizing reading to help pupils access a broad range of subjects. Teachers are knowledgeable and adept at identifying common misconceptions, although there are instances where gaps in pupils' knowledge are not addressed promptly. The school provides a rich selection of literature, fostering an extensive vocabulary and appreciation for history and culture among students.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a priority, with staff making necessary adaptations to ensure these students can access the curriculum. However, some targets for these pupils are not always broken down into manageable steps, which can limit their learning opportunities. The early years provision is a notable strength, with children receiving a solid foundation for their education. Activities are engaging and meaningful, helping children develop concentration and readiness for Year 1.
Pupils demonstrate politeness and cooperation, although there are occasional distractions in class that teachers manage effectively. The school has a robust personal development curriculum that promotes understanding of equality, diversity, and online safety. Older pupils receive age-appropriate lessons on relationships and sex education, preparing them for future challenges.
The staff at Milton Church of England Primary School are dedicated and feel comfortable sharing their views with leadership. The trust provides effective support to governors and leaders, who are now holding staff accountable for their roles. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Despite the positive aspects, the school recognizes the need for improvement in certain areas. Specifically, there is a need for more timely identification and addressing of knowledge gaps among pupils. Additionally, communication with parents regarding their children's progress needs to be strengthened to foster a more effective partnership between home and school. Overall, the school is on a positive trajectory, with a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on providing quality education for all its pupils.
