Arundel Court Primary Academy and Nursery, located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021. The school provides a welcoming environment where every pupil is greeted warmly at the start of each day. The staff demonstrate exceptional care for the students, fostering a sense of belonging and safety. Parents express high satisfaction with the school's commitment to their children's well-being, with many praising the staff for their dedication.
The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness among pupils, who are encouraged to communicate openly about any issues they encounter. Students actively engage in discussions about equality and diversity, showcasing their commitment to these values through projects such as anti-racism posters. The curriculum includes lessons on various beliefs and traditions, helping pupils understand moral concepts and the importance of relationships.
Pupils at Arundel Court are encouraged to broaden their horizons through participation in creative, sporting, and cultural activities. As they progress through their education, they develop aspirations for the future, supported by a solid understanding of how to achieve their goals. The school has structured its curriculum effectively, ensuring that knowledge builds progressively from early years through to Year 6. This deliberate structuring prepares pupils well for the challenges of key stage 1 and key stage 2.
Teachers at the school are committed to ensuring that pupils grasp the material being taught. They provide constructive feedback, helping students take pride in their work and understand areas for improvement. The school has established a strong framework for assessing pupil learning, although there is room for improvement in encouraging students to apply their knowledge in new contexts. Leaders recognize the need to enhance this aspect of learning to further boost pupil achievement.
The school is proactive in identifying pupils who require additional support, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The collaborative efforts of teachers, leaders, and teaching assistants ensure that these pupils receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with leaders prioritizing literacy as a fundamental component of pupil success. Staff are well-trained to address the specific needs of pupils from an early age, fostering a love for reading that is evident in students' enthusiasm for literature.
While pupils generally exhibit positive behavior, there are instances where the behavior of a small minority can disrupt learning. The school takes effective measures to address any behavioral issues, ensuring a conducive learning environment for all. Pupils are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, with a growing range of clubs available, including sports and creative arts. The school also offers various experiences outside the classroom, such as theatre visits and music workshops, enriching the educational experience.
The leadership team is dedicated to maintaining a healthy work-life balance for staff while focusing on improving pupil learning outcomes. Staff express high levels of satisfaction with the support they receive, which contributes to a positive school culture. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are robust, with staff trained to identify and address potential issues promptly. Leaders maintain comprehensive records and work closely with external agencies to provide additional support when needed.
Despite the overall good performance of the school, there are areas identified for improvement. While pupil achievement is commendable, it is not yet exceptional. There is a need for pupils to better recall and apply their learning in varied and challenging contexts. Additionally, the reading curriculum in key stage 2 requires enhancement to develop higher-order reading skills, such as inference and comprehension. Leaders are actively working to address these areas to ensure that all pupils reach their full potential.
In summary, Arundel Court Primary Academy and Nursery is a good school that provides a supportive and nurturing environment for its pupils. With a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and well-being, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory while addressing areas for further improvement.
