Hampton Vale Primary Academy, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, was inspected on 14 and 15 June 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour, attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education was also deemed good, while early years provision was rated as good as well. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
Pupils at Hampton Vale Primary Academy express a strong sense of belonging and enjoyment in attending school. The school fosters a welcoming and inclusive culture, where kindness and support among pupils are prevalent. Relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by trust and respect, contributing to a positive learning environment. Children in the early years also feel happy and safe, developing strong relationships with both adults and peers.
The school has high expectations for its pupils, who rise to these challenges and take pride in their achievements. They demonstrate resilience and perseverance, even when faced with difficulties, which leads to high levels of academic success. Behaviour is exemplary, with pupils showing respect for one another and for adults. They learn to manage their emotions effectively, resulting in minimal disruption to learning. Social interactions during playtime are equally positive, with pupils engaging happily with one another.
Leaders have established a rigorous and ambitious curriculum that is well-structured to build on prior knowledge. Important concepts are revisited at strategic intervals, and assessments are in place to monitor pupils' understanding. Teachers effectively utilize assessment data to support pupils who may struggle, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can retain what they have learned.
The curriculum is detailed and clearly outlines the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire. Staff receive high-quality training, enabling them to effectively support pupils in their learning. For instance, in English, teachers break down complex skills into manageable steps, allowing for ongoing assessment and clarification of misunderstandings. This approach helps prevent pupils from falling behind, and appropriate adaptations are made for those with SEND.
Processes for identifying pupils with SEND are clear and effective, with leaders collaborating closely to ensure timely support. Early reading instruction is generally well-supported, although there are instances where some pupils may not receive prompt assistance when they fall behind in phonics. This can lead to a small number of pupils lagging in their reading development.
Pupils' personal development is a key focus, with teachers delivering lessons that address important social themes. The curriculum includes a variety of trips and experiences that enhance learning and understanding. Governance is strong, with the Four Cs Academy Trust ensuring that leaders are both challenged and supported in their efforts to provide high-quality education.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong emphasis on ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of potential harm and respond swiftly to any concerns. Overall, Hampton Vale Primary Academy is a school where pupils thrive academically and socially, supported by a dedicated staff and a strong leadership team. The school is committed to continuous improvement and providing an enriching educational experience for all its students.
