Tivetshall Community Primary School, located in Tivetshall St Mary, Norwich, Norfolk, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on 14 October 2021. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in being part of this small, rural institution. They enjoy their time at school, both for learning and socializing with friends. The school environment is generally harmonious, with minimal issues related to disagreements or bullying. Pupils feel confident that staff would address any concerns effectively.
Behavior across the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating politeness and courtesy. Teachers maintain high expectations for hard work during lessons, resulting in minimal disruptions to learning. Pupils are attentive and respectful, valuing the differences among their peers. The school promotes a culture of inclusivity, as highlighted by a pupil's remark about the importance of looking after everyone.
In addition to core subjects, pupils engage in various activities that promote physical health and well-being. The school emphasizes the importance of staying active, offering a range of physical education options during lunch and after school. Science lessons include discussions on nutritious diets and their effects on health, contributing to pupils' understanding of self-care. The school effectively supports pupils' social and emotional development.
The headteacher, who joined in September 2021, has quickly identified the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Collaborating closely with the Sapienta Education Trust, the leadership team aims to provide pupils with opportunities comparable to those in larger schools. The curriculum is ambitious, offering a broad range of subjects. Many curriculum plans are well-structured, particularly for older year groups, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge through logical sequencing and regular practice.
While the curriculum is largely effective, recent changes in some subjects, such as music, have yet to be fully implemented. New subject leaders are still acclimating to their roles, which may affect the immediate impact on pupils' learning experiences. Reading has been prioritized, especially in the early years, where activities are designed to support children's reading development. Teachers share engaging literature with their classes, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension skills. The school ensures that struggling readers receive appropriate support and resources.
Leaders are working to establish clearer connections between the early years curriculum and later subjects, although this process is ongoing. Professional development opportunities for teachers are robust, allowing for the sharing of expertise across the federation. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and utilize effective assessment strategies to identify and address pupils' learning needs.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff making necessary adjustments to ensure they do not fall behind. The school fosters a positive climate where teamwork and responsibility are emphasized, and pupils are encouraged to contribute to their community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm. The school maintains clear reporting processes for safeguarding concerns and collaborates with external agencies to support pupils' needs. Pupils are educated about safety, particularly regarding online risks.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that all curriculum plans clearly outline the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire throughout their education. Additionally, new subject leaders should receive training to evaluate and improve curriculum design in their areas of responsibility. Overall, Tivetshall Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
