Collingtree Church of England Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, was inspected on March 10 and 11, 2020. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent evaluations across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has not been previously inspected under the Education Act 2005.
Pupils express pride in their school, describing it as friendly and family-centered. They feel safe and valued, noting that adults care for them and listen to their concerns. The teaching staff is commended for their ability to explain concepts clearly, which enhances the learning experience. Pupils show enthusiasm for their studies, engaging with topics that capture their interest, such as an Arctic adventure, and participating in enriching activities like ice skating. The school promotes a culture of respect and understanding, encouraging pupils to appreciate the uniqueness of every individual.
The leadership team has made significant strides in improving the school since its establishment as an academy in 2017. They have focused on building a strong team through careful recruitment and effective training, fostering high expectations for pupil achievement. Parents and carers recognize the positive changes and improvements in the school’s leadership. Phonics instruction is prioritized, ensuring that pupils receive a solid foundation in reading from the outset. Teachers are provided with ongoing training to maintain their subject knowledge, which supports pupils in tackling well-chosen reading materials.
Reading is emphasized throughout the school, with teachers introducing sophisticated vocabulary and encouraging pupils to engage with texts critically. The library has been enhanced, and parents are informed about the importance of reading at home. This focus on literacy has contributed to a growing love of reading among pupils. Writing instruction is also prioritized, with teachers guiding pupils in using grammar effectively and crafting their ideas thoughtfully. The quality of older pupils' writing is noted to be descriptive and engaging.
Mathematics is taught effectively, with a focus on building on prior knowledge and applying mathematical concepts to solve complex problems. Pupils demonstrate strong achievement in this subject area. The curriculum is designed to cover essential content across all subjects, with interesting topics that engage pupils. While improvements have been made in planning for subjects like science and history, there is still work to be done to ensure coherence in the curriculum across all areas.
The early years provision is characterized by a nurturing environment where children settle well and engage in a variety of activities that spark their interests. Staff ensure that children are well-prepared for Year 1, particularly in phonics and numeracy. Pupils with special educational needs receive tailored support to enhance their learning experiences.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior and a willingness to assist others, reflecting the high expectations set by staff. The school fosters well-rounded individuals through various opportunities for personal development, including fundraising and educational trips. Leaders prioritize staff well-being, cultivating a strong sense of teamwork among the staff.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff prioritizing pupil welfare and receiving regular training. Leaders work closely with external agencies to support pupils in need. Pupils are educated on safety, particularly regarding internet use, and they trust staff to help them with any concerns.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is coherently planned and taught across all subjects, extending the successful practices already established in areas like science and history. This will require ongoing professional development for teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills in delivering the curriculum effectively.
