Caythorpe Primary School, located in Grantham, Lincolnshire, underwent its first inspection under the new leadership of the headteacher appointed in February 2021. The inspection, conducted on May 24 and 25, 2022, revealed that the school requires improvement in several key areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision. Despite these challenges, the personal development of pupils was rated as good.
Pupils at Caythorpe Primary School express happiness in their school environment, appreciating the support and attention they receive from their teachers. They feel safe and confident that any concerns, including bullying, will be addressed promptly by the staff. The school promotes inclusivity, with pupils understanding the importance of accepting others regardless of their differences. Parents and carers generally view the school as a nurturing place for their children.
The school has experienced significant changes, particularly in staffing, with many new teachers eager to improve the school under the guidance of the new headteacher. There is a collective ambition among staff and governors to enhance pupil outcomes, although many of the improvement plans are still in the early stages of implementation.
One of the main areas identified for improvement is the curriculum. Leaders have acknowledged that existing curriculum plans do not consistently outline the necessary knowledge and skills for pupils. While some subjects have been revised, not all plans have been updated, and many will not be implemented until the next academic year. Subject leaders, many of whom are new to their roles, vary in their understanding of their responsibilities, which affects their ability to support and challenge their teams effectively.
The school has introduced a new phonics programme, and while teachers use assessments to ensure pupils learn the correct sounds, the implementation of this programme lacks precision. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are included in all aspects of school life, and effective strategies are in place to support their learning.
Behaviour expectations at the school are not sufficiently high, leading to some pupils not demonstrating positive behaviours during lessons and at lunchtime. This lack of engagement can hinder their learning experiences. In early years, children show a reliance on adults, which affects their independence and readiness for Year 1.
Despite these challenges, the school excels in promoting personal development. Leaders have strategically planned various experiences for pupils, exposing them to diverse career options and responsibilities within the school community. Staff generally express positive views about the changes being implemented, feeling supported in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at Caythorpe Primary School are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure the safety of pupils. The curriculum includes lessons on staying safe, addressing various potential dangers.
To improve, the school must ensure that the phonics programme is effectively implemented and that staff receive the necessary training to enhance their subject knowledge. Leaders should expedite the introduction of revised curriculum plans and monitor their delivery to ensure they positively impact pupil learning. Additionally, raising behaviour expectations and fostering independence in early years will be crucial for preparing pupils for future educational stages. Overall, while the school has made strides in certain areas, significant work remains to be done to achieve the desired standards of excellence.
