East Hunsbury Primary School, located in Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 21 and 22, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel a strong sense of community. The ethos of the school emphasizes being respectful, ready, and safe, which is reflected in the behavior and attitudes of the students. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all students are supported in their learning and personal development.
Pupils at East Hunsbury Primary School express enjoyment in attending school and appreciate the various opportunities available to them, such as forest school and after-school clubs. They take on additional responsibilities, like serving as reading ambassadors, which fosters a sense of pride and ownership in their contributions to school life. The teaching staff encourages students to aspire to make a positive impact in their community, promoting the development of responsible and caring citizens.
Parents and carers have a positive view of the school, highlighting the caring environment that supports their children's learning. Feedback from parents indicates a high level of satisfaction with the dedication of the teachers, who are noted for going above and beyond for their students. The school’s leadership is passionate about providing high-quality learning experiences, ensuring that the curriculum is broad and ambitious. Leaders have clearly defined learning objectives across all subjects, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge effectively.
In mathematics, for instance, teachers ensure that students have a solid understanding of foundational concepts before progressing to more complex calculations. This approach helps to build confidence and supports academic achievement. Staff receive the necessary guidance and training to deliver the curriculum effectively, and assessment practices are utilized to inform lesson planning, particularly in English and mathematics.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with early years pupils developing their vocabulary and reading skills from the outset. The school provides a range of texts that reflect contemporary society, fostering positive attitudes towards reading among students. Those who struggle with reading receive targeted support to help them catch up quickly.
Behavior at the school is generally good, with children in the early years demonstrating self-control and the ability to coexist harmoniously. While there are occasional incidents of poor behavior, staff are skilled in providing the necessary support to help pupils regulate their actions. The school offers a variety of activities during break times, and pupils particularly enjoy sports led by a specialist.
Pupils with special educational needs are fully integrated into all aspects of school life, receiving tailored support from expert staff in the specialist unit. This inclusive approach ensures that all pupils thrive in a nurturing environment. The curriculum also promotes personal development, teaching pupils to respect diverse cultures and beliefs while encouraging community involvement.
Governors and leaders from the Northampton Primary Academy Trust play a vital role in supporting the school’s continuous improvement. Staff express appreciation for the support they receive, noting a strong sense of community among colleagues. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff well-trained to recognize and respond to concerns. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with any worries.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need to further embed assessment practices across the wider curriculum to ensure that key skills and knowledge are consistently developed. Leaders are encouraged to establish a clear structure for assessing pupils' understanding in all subjects. Overall, East Hunsbury Primary School continues to provide a positive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
