Awsworth Primary and Nursery School, located in Nottinghamshire, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on the 2nd and 3rd of November 2022, and the school has been recognized for its strong commitment to education, behavior, and personal development. The school operates under the motto striving to achieve our BEST, which reflects its dedication to fostering a positive learning environment.
Pupils at Awsworth Primary exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating politeness and courtesy towards peers, adults, and visitors. They feel safe within the school environment and report that instances of bullying are rare, with confidence that staff will address any issues that arise. The school encourages students to take on roles that contribute positively to the school community, such as Rights Respecting Ambassadors and school council representatives. These roles empower pupils to voice their ideas and suggestions, reinforcing a sense of belonging and responsibility.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including football, gardening, and book clubs, which help students develop their talents and character. Pupils also enjoy educational trips to places like Matlock, Wales, and Alton Towers, which are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all students.
In terms of academic performance, the school has made significant strides in curriculum development. Leaders have revised the curriculum to ensure it is ambitious and meets the needs of all pupils. Initial focus areas included reading, mathematics, and science, with clear objectives set for the knowledge and skills students should acquire. However, there are areas where the identification of key knowledge could be improved, particularly in some subjects where leaders have not yet fully defined what is essential for pupils to learn.
The teaching of reading is a priority at Awsworth Primary, with a new approach to early reading and phonics introduced. This method begins in the early years, helping younger pupils recognize sounds and form letters, while older pupils apply their phonetic knowledge to read unfamiliar words. Despite these efforts, some inconsistencies in teaching practices have been noted, leading to misconceptions among pupils regarding the application of their phonics knowledge.
Mathematics instruction is structured to build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to progress year after year. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively address any misconceptions that arise during lessons. Assessment practices are utilized to gauge what pupils remember and can do across various subjects.
In the early years, the curriculum is designed to be ambitious, setting a solid foundation for children's future education. Established routines contribute to a thriving learning environment, although there are plans to enhance outdoor learning spaces to support physical development.
The school's approach to personal development is commendable, with a strong emphasis on values such as respect, resilience, and care. Pupils engage in learning about different cultures and festivals, enriching their understanding of the world through activities like food tasting and themed days. The school is inclusive, catering for the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can fully participate in school life.
Governance at Awsworth Primary is effective, with the local governing body fulfilling its statutory duties regarding safeguarding and equality. Governors possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, supporting leaders in enhancing the educational experience for all pupils.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff receiving regular training and promptly addressing any concerns. Pupils are well-informed about how to keep themselves safe, including online safety and healthy relationships.
While the school has made significant progress, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to refine the curriculum further to ensure clarity regarding the knowledge pupils should acquire across all subjects. Additionally, addressing inconsistencies in the teaching of early reading will help ensure that all pupils become confident and fluent readers more quickly. Overall, Awsworth Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for its pupils.
