Stilton Church of England Primary Academy, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since joining the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust in May 2018. The inspection, conducted on 21 and 22 September 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The school serves a mixed-gender population of 142 pupils aged 4 to 11 and is characterized by a strong commitment to fostering a caring and supportive environment.
The school’s motto, “flourish through friendship,” reflects its ethos, which emphasizes listening and caring among pupils. This supportive atmosphere encourages students to be confident and achieve well, with high expectations set for all, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills, promoting curiosity and critical thinking. Pupils engage in discussions on various topics, demonstrating their ability to articulate different viewpoints.
Pupils report feeling safe and rarely encounter bullying, with staff addressing any incidents of unkindness promptly. Behaviour is exemplary, both in the classroom and during playtime, where pupils organize their own games and support one another. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts clubs, which enhance pupils’ talents and interests, preparing them well for secondary education.
The leadership team has effectively designed the curriculum to ensure that pupils retain important knowledge, with curriculum leaders receiving training to monitor the impact of teaching on long-term memory. Staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge, enabling them to respond to pupils' inquiries and deepen their understanding. While assessment practices are well-established in most subjects, some newly reviewed foundation subjects require further monitoring to ensure they meet intended outcomes.
Reading is a particular strength of the school, with a well-structured phonics and reading curriculum that prioritizes literacy from the outset. This focus has resulted in very few pupils falling behind in their reading skills, contributing to improved vocabulary, understanding, and fluency over time. Pupils with special educational needs are provided with tailored support, allowing them to access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers and achieve commendable progress.
In the early years, children benefit from positive relationships that help them settle and engage in learning. Subject-specific teaching is integrated into their experiences, fostering excitement about their learning journey. Behaviour in the early years is also exceptional, with children displaying attentiveness and respect.
The school’s personal development curriculum is carefully constructed, providing pupils with opportunities to explore diverse perspectives and reflect on their own experiences. Governors actively participate in the school’s oversight, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for improving outcomes, although there is room for enhancing their expertise in certain areas.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify and address risks to pupils. Clear processes are in place for managing allegations against staff, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Overall, Stilton Church of England Primary Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a nurturing environment, and preparing pupils for future success. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of newly implemented curricula.
