Robert Shaw Primary and Nursery School, located in Nottingham, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school is committed to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of community among its pupils. The school's vision, encapsulated in the motto The 3Rs – respectful, responsible, resilient, is well understood by the students, who express a strong sense of belonging and pride in their school. Leaders aim to prepare pupils to be informed citizens not only in Nottingham but also in the wider world, emphasizing the importance of understanding various religions, beliefs, and cultures.
The quality of education at Robert Shaw is commendable, with teachers establishing high expectations and routines early in the school year. Pupils receive timely support when needed, ensuring that all students can achieve their potential. The behavior of pupils is consistently good, as they adhere to the expectations set by adults, demonstrating attentiveness in class and sensible conduct throughout the school.
Pupils report feeling happy and safe at school, attributing this to the attentive nature of the staff who listen to their concerns. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that they can approach trusted adults for help. The school has implemented effective reading programs from the outset, with daily reading sessions that engage pupils and foster a love for literature. Mathematics instruction is also strong, with a curriculum tailored to meet the needs of the students.
While the school has made significant strides in its curriculum, some subject plans lack the precision needed to ensure that pupils retain essential knowledge and vocabulary. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to enhance the curriculum by detailing the most important concepts that pupils should learn. Staff are committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they can learn alongside their peers. The school also prioritizes English language acquisition for pupils who speak it as an additional language.
Extracurricular opportunities are available, including a choir that performs for local care home residents and various charity fundraising activities. However, some activities have been limited due to pandemic restrictions, with plans in place to resume them as soon as possible. The school environment is characterized by good behavior, with pupils engaging positively in lessons and activities.
Leadership at Robert Shaw is proactive, with leaders understanding the strengths and areas for improvement within the school. They have established clear plans for ongoing development and are considerate of staff workload and well-being. The school actively seeks feedback from pupils, staff, and parents, ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to identify and address welfare concerns. Regular updates on safeguarding issues keep the topic at the forefront of staff awareness. Pupils are educated on safety, including the risks associated with modern technology.
In summary, Robert Shaw Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement in curriculum planning and assessment, the school is on a positive trajectory, with dedicated staff and leadership focused on the well-being and success of all pupils.
