Hungerford Primary Academy, located in Crewe, underwent an inspection on January 10 and 11, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also falling into the same category. However, the school demonstrated good performance in areas such as behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This was the first inspection under the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in September 2018.
Pupils at Hungerford Primary Academy feel safe and happy, benefiting from a nurturing environment where mental health and well-being are prioritized. Strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a supportive atmosphere, with staff being readily available to address any concerns. The school has effective measures in place to tackle bullying and promote good behavior, with pupils generally responding well to expectations.
Despite the positive environment, there are notable gaps in pupils' knowledge across various subjects, indicating that they do not learn as effectively as they should. Leaders have high aspirations for academic achievement, and while they have made significant changes to the curriculum, the impact of these changes is still developing. Attendance remains a challenge, with some pupils missing too much school, which hampers their progress.
The school has implemented a well-structured early reading program, and children in the early years are introduced to phonics effectively. However, there is a need for more support for pupils who struggle to keep up with the reading curriculum. By the end of key stage two, most pupils read confidently and have positive attitudes towards reading.
Leaders are committed to ensuring that the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are met. The specially resourced provision allows these pupils to access the same curriculum as their peers, fostering a sense of belonging within the school community. Pupils with SEND receive timely support, enabling them to participate fully in school life.
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities that enrich pupils' learning experiences beyond the academic curriculum. Pupils engage in various clubs and enjoy trips to local attractions, promoting respect for diverse cultures and faiths. The governance structure is strong, with trustees and governors providing effective oversight and support to the school.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Staff receive regular training to stay updated on safeguarding practices, and leaders maintain meticulous records of any concerns. Pupils are educated on various safety aspects, including internet safety, through a well-designed personal development program.
To improve, the school must ensure that all pupils receive the necessary support to keep up with the early reading program and address significant gaps in knowledge resulting from recent curriculum changes. Teachers need to consistently check pupils' understanding of prior learning before introducing new content to build on their knowledge effectively. Additionally, improving attendance for a small number of pupils is crucial to enhance their learning opportunities and overall achievement. The school is on a journey of improvement, and with continued focus on these areas, it can enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
