Homefields Primary School, located in Chellaston, Derby, has recently undergone an inspection that evaluated its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 29 and 30, 2023, and assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good or outstanding.
The school has a strong reputation for creating a caring and happy environment, where the values of kindness, courage, and respect are deeply embedded in the school culture. Pupils express that these values resonate with their experiences, contributing to their overall happiness at school. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to foster positive attitudes and skills, with a focus on responsibility, reflection, resourcefulness, resilience, and reciprocity.
Pupils demonstrate outstanding behavior and attitudes, characterized by respectfulness and politeness, which is a direct result of the positive relationships modeled by the staff. The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles, such as being school council members or buddies for younger students, which enhances their sense of responsibility and mental well-being.
Parents appreciate the nurturing environment provided by the school, highlighting the supportive atmosphere that allows children to thrive. The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum across all subjects, with clear learning objectives that help teachers deliver effective lessons. The curriculum is structured to build knowledge progressively, ensuring that pupils develop a solid foundation of skills and understanding.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In certain subjects, the curriculum plans are not as effective, leading to less evident progression in pupils' skills and lower quality of work. Additionally, while most staff support pupils with special educational needs well, there is a need for more consistent adaptation of lessons to fully meet the diverse learning needs of these pupils.
Reading is prioritized at Homefields, with a systematic approach to phonics instruction starting in the early years. Pupils are provided with well-matched reading materials, and interventions are in place to support those at risk of falling behind. This focus on reading has resulted in pupils becoming confident and fluent readers, with a positive attitude towards reading.
The early years provision is characterized by a nurturing environment where children feel happy and secure. Activities are thoughtfully planned to promote independence and engagement. Personal development is a key focus, with a well-structured personal, social, and health education curriculum that encourages pupils to become lifelong learners. The school promotes understanding of different cultures and values, fostering active citizenship through charity work.
Leadership at Homefields is effective, with a collaborative approach among the governing body, trust, and staff. The school community is supportive, with staff expressing pride in being part of the school. Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Homefields Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum implementation and support for pupils with special educational needs, the overall effectiveness of the school remains strong, reflecting its commitment to high standards of education and personal development.
