The Abbey Primary School in Northampton has recently undergone its first inspection since opening, receiving a commendable overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection, conducted on March 28 and 29, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a happy, caring, and inclusive environment for its pupils. Parents and carers expressed strong agreement that the school fosters a sense of safety and belonging, with pupils feeling secure and knowing whom to approach with any concerns. The school promotes a community ethos encapsulated in its '5Bs' code, which encourages pupils to be their best selves.
The school has implemented a personalized approach to well-being, allowing each pupil to select five trusted individuals within the school to support them. This initiative ensures that every child feels valued and listened to. The school's mission is to encourage pupils to reach their full potential while being true to themselves. Clear rules and routines have been established, contributing to a calm and focused learning environment. Pupils exhibit exceptional behavior and engagement in their studies, with a strong consensus that bullying is not an issue at the school. The inclusive atmosphere is praised by students, who feel that everyone is treated equally.
The curriculum has been redesigned to be ambitious and well-structured, with clear expectations set for what pupils should learn from early years through to Year 6. Curriculum leaders are knowledgeable and have collaborated with colleagues to enhance their skills. However, some teachers still require further development in their subject knowledge to effectively deliver the full curriculum. Teaching quality is generally high, with lessons designed to build on prior knowledge and connect new concepts, although there are instances where misconceptions are not adequately addressed.
Pupils have access to a wide range of reading materials and typically leave the school as confident readers. The introduction of a new phonics program aims to ensure consistency in reading instruction, with early years pupils receiving strong support in developing their reading skills. The school is also committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting teaching methods to ensure effective support and celebrating their achievements.
Attendance and punctuality have improved, aided by initiatives such as the 'wake up and shake up' club, which encourages timely arrival at school. The school promotes personal and character development through community engagement, such as fundraising for local charities and participation in democratic processes like electing house captains. Pupils benefit from various enriching experiences, including educational trips, which enhance their learning and appreciation for diversity.
The leadership team prioritizes staff well-being and workload, fostering a culture of kindness and support. The commitment of the trust, governors, and staff to delivering high-quality education is evident in the enthusiasm and eagerness of pupils to learn. Safeguarding measures are robust, with clear procedures in place and regular training for staff to ensure pupil safety. Pupils are knowledgeable about safeguarding issues and understand how to stay safe online.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers need to enhance their subject knowledge to teach the curriculum effectively, and assessment practices should be refined to provide clearer feedback to pupils. Addressing these areas will further strengthen the school's educational offerings and ensure that all pupils achieve their potential. Overall, The Abbey Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the development of its pupils.
