Orton Wistow Primary School, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, has recently undergone an inspection on July 11 and 12, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school became an academy in March 2019. The school serves a diverse population of 415 pupils aged four to eleven and is part of the OWN Trust.
Pupils at Orton Wistow Primary School benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum that is enhanced by various extracurricular opportunities, including visits and guest speakers. The school fosters strong relationships among pupils and between pupils and staff, contributing to a positive learning environment. Students express pride in their achievements and demonstrate a positive attitude towards their education. The curriculum emphasizes basic skills while also integrating opportunities for writing and mathematics across various subjects, ensuring inclusivity for all learners, including those with additional needs.
The school has established high expectations for behaviour, which is reflected in the positive conduct of pupils both in lessons and throughout the school. Incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils are well-informed about how to handle such situations should they arise. The school promotes a safe and happy environment, where pupils feel secure and supported. A variety of clubs and activities are available, along with opportunities for residential trips, which enrich the curriculum and enhance student motivation. Pupils are well-prepared for their transition to secondary education.
Leaders at the school have developed ambitious curriculum plans that clearly outline essential subject knowledge and its logical progression. This structure aids teachers in planning lessons that build on prior knowledge, leading to good pupil achievement. Teachers actively monitor pupils' understanding to provide necessary support, although there is room for improvement in identifying when pupils are ready for more challenging content. This occasionally results in some pupils waiting for their peers to complete tasks before advancing.
Phonics and early reading are prioritized, with daily sessions designed to build pupils' knowledge over time. The school has a well-stocked library, and reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonetic knowledge, fostering enthusiasm for reading. Support staff are well-trained and effectively assist pupils who require additional help, enabling them to catch up quickly.
The early years provision is well-resourced, offering engaging indoor and outdoor spaces that motivate children to develop their skills. Activities related to topics such as minibeasts encourage cooperative and independent learning. The school promotes fundamental British values, and pupils demonstrate respect and tolerance towards different religions and cultures.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require attention. Leaders need to ensure that teaching is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, particularly those who require greater challenges. Additionally, some pupils eligible for pupil premium funding may not have equal access to enrichment activities, and leaders must work to address this disparity.
The safeguarding arrangements at Orton Wistow Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff. The school prioritizes health and safety, ensuring that pupils know how to keep themselves safe both online and offline. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
