Norfolk Community Primary School in Sheffield has been rated as good in its recent inspection, which took place on June 21 and 22, 2022. The school has established a positive environment where pupils feel well cared for and understand the importance of safety and health. From the youngest children to older pupils, there is a clear understanding of mental and physical well-being, as well as respect for diverse cultures and beliefs. The school has a low incidence of bullying, with records indicating that it is a rare occurrence. Parents and carers have expressed satisfaction with the improvements made by the school leadership, highlighting the dedication and support provided by the staff during challenging times.
Pupils demonstrate a strong desire to learn and exhibit good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school. They have high aspirations for their future roles and are encouraged by leaders who maintain high expectations for their achievements in subjects like mathematics and English. However, the curriculum does not fully support pupils in reaching ambitious goals across all subjects. The school prioritizes early reading, with staff receiving comprehensive training in phonics and providing consistent support through various reading sessions. Pupils enjoy daily story time and are exposed to a wide range of high-quality texts.
In subjects such as mathematics and history, the curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge. Subject leaders are confident in their curriculum planning and have developed appropriate resources to support staff. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, lacking clear objectives and assessment processes. This can hinder pupils' ability to build on their prior knowledge effectively. The early years foundation stage provides a strong start for children, focusing on language and communication skills while fostering independence.
Leaders have prioritized improving behavior within the school, implementing a restorative approach that has resulted in a calm and orderly environment. Pupils understand behavioral expectations, and incidents of poor behavior have significantly decreased. The school promotes the development of pupils' confidence and resilience, with older students demonstrating a mature understanding of social issues such as racism and homophobia.
The local governing body collaborates effectively with school leaders, maintaining a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff members feel valued and supported, with leaders considering their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established within the school. Staff are vigilant and responsive to any concerns, ensuring that pupils' needs are met.
To improve further, the school must enhance its curriculum planning and sequencing to ensure that all subjects are well-developed and aligned from early years through to Year 6. This will help pupils achieve ambitious end points and prepare them for the next stages of their education. Leaders are already taking steps to address these areas, demonstrating their commitment to continuous improvement. Overall, Norfolk Community Primary School is a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and personally.
