Stanstead Nursery and Primary School, located in Nottinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 25 and 26, 2022. The school is characterized by a cheerful and caring environment where both pupils and staff prioritize the needs of students. Pupils express their enjoyment of attending school and feel safe, knowing that staff are responsive to their concerns. The school promotes positive behavior through its established values, which are integral to the students' learning experience. Leaders have implemented effective measures to address bullying, which is reported to be rare, and they maintain careful records of any incidents to ensure appropriate support is provided.
The school has high expectations for its pupils, and its curriculum is driven by a clear vision that emphasizes language, experiences, aspiration, and diversity. This thoughtful approach to curriculum design has garnered positive feedback from parents and carers, particularly following a period of staff turnover that has since stabilized. The newly appointed senior leadership team has made a noticeable impact, with parents acknowledging the improvements in the school environment and educational quality.
The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders clearly outlining the knowledge to be taught over time. Pupils demonstrate a strong grasp of important concepts, such as their understanding of refugees and historical events like the Battle of Britain. Regular revisiting of previous learning ensures that pupils retain knowledge effectively. Teaching methods are focused and utilize questioning techniques that encourage critical thinking. However, there are instances where teachers may not adequately check for understanding, which can lead to some pupils not receiving the necessary support to complete tasks successfully.
Reading instruction is a priority, with a systematic approach to phonics that enables pupils to develop their reading skills effectively. Staff are trained to ensure consistency in teaching methods, and they provide timely support for pupils who may fall behind. The school also excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, offering targeted assistance to help them access the curriculum.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, demonstrating politeness and enthusiasm for their learning. The school has established clear procedures for managing behavior, including a designated space for pupils to reflect and regain composure when needed. This respectful culture extends to an understanding of British values and equality, with pupils being taught the importance of fair treatment regardless of personal characteristics.
The early years setting is well-equipped, providing diverse learning opportunities that foster a broad range of skills and knowledge. Adults in this setting engage effectively with children, using high-quality questioning to support their development. The support from The Flying High Trust has been instrumental in maintaining a good quality of education.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with regular training for staff to identify potential concerns. Leaders maintain detailed records and act promptly on any issues, ensuring that vulnerable families receive the necessary support. The school meets statutory requirements for safeguarding and staff qualifications.
While the school has established a solid foundation, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to refine their approach to ensure that pupils are not advanced too quickly before mastering prerequisite knowledge. Additionally, reviews of targets for pupils with special educational needs should be more precise to enhance parental understanding and support at home. Overall, Stanstead Nursery and Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
