Hemblington Primary School, located in Blofield Heath, Norwich, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 22nd and 23rd of May 2024, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The executive headteacher, Louise Norgate, leads the school, which is part of the Broad Horizons Education Trust, overseen by CEO Don Evans and a board of directors chaired by Chris Snudden.
The quality of education at Hemblington Primary is rated as good, with pupils achieving well due to the high expectations set by teachers. The staff provide effective support to help pupils understand challenging concepts, ensuring that they are encouraged to do their best. Behaviour and attitudes within the school are outstanding, with pupils demonstrating exemplary conduct both in lessons and around the school. They actively engage with the school's ethos of respect, readiness, resilience, and responsibility, which fosters a positive learning environment.
Pupils are motivated to adhere to school rules, which are reinforced through a system of behaviour and learning points, as well as a special weekly reward time. This approach not only helps pupils reflect on their behaviour but also contributes positively to their spiritual, moral, and social development. The school promotes collaboration among pupils, who work and play well together, and staff are quick to resolve any conflicts that arise. Pupils feel confident to approach trusted adults if they have concerns, ensuring a supportive atmosphere.
Extracurricular activities are well-supported, with a variety of sports clubs available after school. The school also offers numerous visits and guest speakers to enhance learning across different subjects. The 'Hemblington Hundred' initiative provides pupils with a range of experiences before they leave, broadening their life experiences significantly.
The governing body and trust have a strong understanding of the school’s needs, having supported leaders in addressing issues identified in the last inspection. The curriculum has been thoroughly revised, with most subjects carefully planned and sequenced. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum does not clearly outline what pupils should know by the end of a unit, which can hinder their ability to recall and explain their learning effectively.
Staff training has been successful, equipping teachers with the skills needed to deliver the revised curriculum. Teachers possess good subject knowledge and are supported when necessary. The school has implemented effective systems for teaching reading from the start of the Reception Year, with all children making rapid progress in phonics. By the end of Reception, most children can read simple books, and all pupils are fluent readers by the end of Year Four.
The school has robust systems in place to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they make strong progress. The behaviour management system is highly effective, with clear expectations that are consistently applied across classrooms. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and take pride in their work.
In the early years, children receive a solid foundation for their education, with a curriculum that reflects their interests. They are encouraged to articulate their learning and engage in collaborative activities. The school promotes personal development through various initiatives, including understanding different faiths and lifestyles, and encouraging pupils to take on responsibilities.
Overall, Hemblington Primary School has made commendable strides in improving its educational offerings and fostering a positive environment for its pupils. The commitment of the leadership team, staff, and governing body is evident in the school's progress, and the focus on high standards and personal development is likely to continue benefiting the students in the future.
