Monksmoor Park Church of England Primary School, located in Daventry, Northamptonshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in September 2018. The inspection, conducted on 28 and 29 March 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school’s ethos of nurturing all pupils to flourish and aspire is evident in its inclusive approach, which provides tailored support for students with special educational needs and disabilities. This has led to many pupils thriving in their educational environment.
Pupils at Monksmoor Park display enthusiasm and confidence, feeling secure and comfortable in their surroundings. They report positive relationships with peers, highlighting the kindness of their classmates and the supportive atmosphere within the school. The school effectively addresses issues of bullying, ensuring that pupils understand what it is and how it would be dealt with if it occurred. Outdoor education is a significant aspect of the curriculum, with pupils enjoying forest school sessions that enhance their learning and well-being.
Parental support for the school is strong, with many expressing satisfaction with the emphasis placed on their children's education and well-being. The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum with a logical sequence of learning across subjects, ensuring that essential knowledge and skills are clearly defined. Teachers closely follow these curriculum plans, although there are instances where they may move on too quickly without adequately checking that all pupils have a secure understanding of the material before progressing.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a consistent phonics program that immerses children in literature from the start of their education. Staff are well-trained to teach reading, and pupils develop fluency and confidence through practice with appropriately matched reading materials. The early years provision is particularly strong, with clear routines and expectations that foster independence among children. Opportunities for writing and numeracy are abundant, contributing to the development of foundational skills.
Leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with complex needs, achieve high standards and fully participate in the curriculum. Staff supporting these pupils demonstrate ambition and sensitivity, resulting in positive outcomes for most students. Pupils exhibit enthusiasm for learning and understand the school rules, although occasional reminders about expectations are necessary.
The school promotes diversity and equality, with pupils developing a solid understanding of British values and the school's core values of acceptance, friendship, hope, joy, respect, and well-being. Senior leaders have effectively managed the school's growth, and governors provide valuable support and challenge. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the monitoring of curriculum implementation in some foundation subjects, which can lead to inconsistencies in the quality of learning.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying and addressing potential concerns. The school maintains thorough recruitment checks and ensures that pupils know to seek help from trusted adults when needed. Overall, Monksmoor Park Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a nurturing and effective educational environment, with clear areas identified for ongoing improvement to enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
