Holton St Peter Community Primary School, located in Holton, Halesworth, Suffolk, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on October 5 and 6, 2021. The school, which caters to children aged 3 to 11, has a total enrollment of 105 pupils and operates under the Asset Multi-Academy Trust. The headteacher, Christine Starkl, leads a cohesive team that is dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment. Pupils express enjoyment in their school experience, describing it as a friendly and happy place. They appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their teachers, who are noted for making learning enjoyable and supportive.
The school emphasizes safety and well-being, with pupils feeling secure and confident in addressing any concerns. The school's values of being ready, respectful, and safe guide students in their interactions. The behavior and attitudes of pupils are commendable, as they demonstrate politeness and attentiveness, both in class and during interactions with visitors. The leadership team has a clear vision for the school and is aware of its strengths and areas for improvement. They have carefully planned the curriculum to ensure that it meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and engaging, with a focus on ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills. Teachers are encouraged to create activities that capture pupils' interests, which aids in retention of information. For instance, in science lessons, pupils were able to recall facts about volcanic eruptions due to their involvement in related experiments. However, there are areas that require attention, particularly in the consistency of pupils' work presentation. Some teachers do not enforce high standards in written work, leading to errors that go unaddressed in subjects like history and geography.
The school has implemented a structured approach to phonics, which begins early in a child's education. This method has proven effective in developing pupils' reading skills, with additional support provided to those at risk of falling behind. The school promotes a love of reading through regular story times and well-resourced book areas. Extracurricular activities further enhance pupils' development, allowing them to explore their interests and learn about health and well-being.
Leaders are committed to continuous improvement and have established effective safeguarding measures. Staff are well-trained and vigilant regarding pupil safety, ensuring that any concerns are promptly addressed. The school community is encouraged to engage in discussions about current issues, fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness among pupils.
Despite the positive aspects, the school recognizes the need for ongoing development. Subject leaders require more opportunities to evaluate the effectiveness of their curriculum plans. Additionally, there is a need for teachers to consistently uphold high expectations regarding the presentation of pupils' work. The leadership team is focused on providing the necessary support and direction to ensure that all pupils meet the expected standards.
Overall, Holton St Peter Community Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education in a nurturing environment. The positive feedback from pupils and parents reflects the school's dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging learning atmosphere. With continued focus on improvement and consistency, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings further.
