Trinity Church of England Primary School, located in Aldwincle, Northamptonshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on June 13 and 14, 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 is characterized by a welcoming and supportive environment where strong relationships between pupils and staff foster a sense of safety and belonging. Pupils express their appreciation for the school's atmosphere, highlighting the caring nature of the adults who work there.
The leadership team at Trinity has established high expectations for all pupils, underpinned by six core values: community, charity, faith, respect, perseverance, and friendship. These values are well understood by the pupils, who actively strive to embody them in their daily interactions. The school promotes a calm and focused learning environment, which encourages pupils to engage positively with their education. Pupils take pride in their work and demonstrate politeness and respect towards one another, contributing to a harmonious school culture. Older students are seen looking after younger peers, reinforcing a sense of community.
Trinity offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with a notable participation rate in clubs and sporting events. Pupils eagerly anticipate opportunities to represent their school, and many take on leadership roles, such as school councillors, allowing them to contribute to school life and suggest improvements. The school has successfully cultivated a love for reading among both staff and pupils, with initiatives like Chapter Free Fridays enhancing the reading culture. The phonics program in the early years is of high quality, ensuring that children develop essential reading skills effectively.
The curriculum at Trinity is well-structured, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn and when. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and make connections between lessons to reinforce learning. However, there are inconsistencies in the use of assessment during lessons, which can lead to pupils progressing before they have fully grasped the necessary concepts. This is an area identified for improvement, as it is crucial for teachers to accurately assess pupils' understanding to ensure they are ready for new learning.
The school is committed to inclusivity, with effective support in place for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum also emphasizes personal, social, health, and economic education, helping pupils understand their roles as responsible citizens. While pupils have a solid understanding of Christianity, their knowledge of other world faiths is less developed, indicating a potential area for growth in the curriculum.
Leadership at Trinity is attentive to staff well-being, fostering a supportive environment where teachers feel valued. The collaboration with the Peterborough Diocese Education Trust has been beneficial in shaping the curriculum and enhancing teaching practices. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Trinity Church of England Primary School is a good school that provides a nurturing and effective educational experience. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and the breadth of religious education, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils. The positive relationships, high expectations, and supportive environment contribute to a thriving school community where pupils can flourish.
