The Galfrid School, located in Cambridge, has recently undergone an inspection on October 17 and 18, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school, which opened in June 2019 as part of the United Learning trust, is led by headteacher Claire Macfie. The trust is overseen by CEO Jon Coles and a board of trustees, with regional director Matthew Wynne responsible for the school.
Pupils at The Galfrid School express enjoyment in their daily experiences, highlighting positive interactions with teachers, engaging lessons, and the friendships they form. They feel safe due to the respectful relationships established with adults in the school, who are committed to resolving any issues that arise. The behaviour of pupils is commendable, as they remain focused and engaged during lessons, demonstrating respect for one another's opinions and learning styles. The school promotes emotional well-being, teaching pupils to manage their emotions through techniques such as mindfulness and reflection.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that complement the curriculum, including trips to museums and other educational sites, which are well-attended and enhance pupils' learning experiences. Since its opening, The Galfrid School has made significant progress, with staff collaborating to create a clear vision aimed at maximizing each pupil's potential. The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to the needs of the pupils, ensuring they receive enriching experiences.
While the school has organized knowledge in most subjects to build over time, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders lack clarity on how early years education prepares children for the Year 1 curriculum. Additionally, a few staff members require further training to effectively teach certain subjects, which has resulted in gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding. The school is committed to addressing these issues to ensure all staff receive high-quality training across all subjects.
The curriculum is personalized for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support, enabling these pupils to make strong progress. Reading is prioritized from the early years, with children learning phonics effectively and being provided with well-matched reading materials. Regular assessments help identify pupils needing additional support, contributing to their strong progress in reading.
Pupils have access to a diverse range of books in the school library and are encouraged to discuss their reading preferences, fostering a love for literature. The school maintains high expectations for behaviour, instilling routines and rules from the early years, which are consistently enforced by staff. The personal development curriculum is well-structured, exposing pupils to various cultures and beliefs, and allowing them to take on responsibilities within the school community.
The school values its staff and prioritizes their well-being, ensuring they receive personalized training and support. The trust and governors have worked closely with staff to implement changes that positively impact pupils. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Overall, The Galfrid School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment, while also recognizing areas for further development to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
