Manor Fields Primary School in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection took place on March 15 and 16, 2022, marking the school’s first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The school is part of the Herts & Essex Multi-Academy Trust and serves pupils aged three to eleven.
Pupils at Manor Fields Primary School enjoy a supportive learning environment where staff prioritize their achievement and well-being. They express enthusiasm for the engaging books and topics chosen by teachers, which foster a genuine interest in learning. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including debating, hockey, and orchestra clubs, which pupils find exciting and rewarding. They also appreciate the opportunities to compete with other schools, showcasing their talents and skills.
The school promotes positive behavior among pupils, who value kindness and sensible conduct. Staff provide specific praise, helping students understand their strengths and achievements. Weekly celebration assemblies allow pupils to share their accomplishments, reinforcing a sense of community and recognition. The school effectively addresses bullying, with staff facilitating discussions to resolve issues promptly, contributing to a safe and happy environment for all students.
Leaders at Manor Fields place a strong emphasis on reading, ensuring that all pupils develop essential literacy skills. Staff meticulously plan reading lessons and have recently audited the books provided to pupils, ensuring they align with their current knowledge and abilities. Early years provision is robust, with staff forming positive relationships with children and assessing their progress to prepare them for future learning.
While the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, some areas require further attention. Recent changes to the foundation subjects have led to the exploration of new assessment methods, but many teachers have not yet received adequate guidance on how to effectively measure pupils’ knowledge retention. This gap in training may hinder the ability to inform teaching and curriculum development accurately.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff set measurable and time-focused targets for these pupils, assessing the effectiveness of additional support through regular evaluations. Overall, pupils demonstrate good behavior and regular attendance, with staff trained in a therapeutic approach to behavior management.
The personal development program at Manor Fields is well-structured, incorporating daily mindfulness activities that teach pupils how to manage stress and anxiety. Leaders encourage pupils to engage in activities outside of school, promoting health and well-being through various themes. Positive recognition from teachers and peers further enhances pupils’ motivation and self-esteem.
Governors play an active role in ensuring that school leaders are committed to the best interests of pupils, parents, and staff. They rigorously question and evaluate school practices, fostering a culture of accountability. Feedback from parents indicates a high level of satisfaction with the school, and staff express pride in their work environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Manor Fields are effective, with staff receiving regular training to maintain a vigilant approach to pupil safety. The school fosters an atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable discussing their concerns, ensuring that their well-being is prioritized. Overall, Manor Fields Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational institution, with a strong foundation for continued improvement and success.
