Offord Primary School, located in Offord Darcy, St Neots, Cambridgeshire, has recently undergone an inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and early years provision also receiving a good rating. Notably, personal development and leadership and management have been rated as outstanding. This inspection marks the first evaluation under the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in September 2019.
The headteacher, Kate Ruddock, leads the school, which is part of The Cam Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Stephen Munday and a board of trustees chaired by Sue Williamson. The school benefits from the support of an executive headteacher, Shelley Desborough, who oversees this school and two others within the trust.
Pupils at Offord Primary School express high levels of happiness and engagement in their learning environment. They are taught to recognize and manage their emotions, fostering a culture of care and support among peers. Older students take on mentorship roles for younger pupils, promoting a respectful and tolerant atmosphere. The school encourages participation in community events, such as the village fete, which helps students feel connected to their local environment.
The school’s motto emphasizes readiness to learn, open communication about problems, engagement, and respect, which reflects the positive behaviour observed among students. The curriculum is ambitious, and pupils receive the necessary support to thrive, particularly in writing and mathematics, achieving results that align with national standards by the time they graduate.
Offord Primary School offers a variety of enriching experiences that enhance learning, including trips to science labs, theatre performances, and workshops with experts. The leadership team has effectively redeveloped the curriculum to cater to mixed-age classes, ensuring that essential knowledge is built progressively. Teachers are adept at identifying and addressing misconceptions, particularly in mathematics, which helps solidify students' understanding.
Phonics instruction is implemented effectively from early years, enabling pupils to develop strong reading skills. The school library plays a central role in promoting a love for reading, with students actively engaging with literature and participating in author visits and workshops.
Despite the overall positive feedback, the inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in writing quality among younger students. There is a noted inconsistency in the depth and quality of writing produced, which can hinder older pupils from advancing their skills effectively. The school is encouraged to ensure that all staff provide ample opportunities for students to enhance their writing capabilities.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, ensuring their inclusion and success within the school community. Early years education focuses on developing social skills and communication, laying a strong foundation for respectful interactions among students.
The school has made significant strides since the previous inspection of its predecessor, with effective governance and support from the trust contributing to its success. Staff members report high levels of satisfaction regarding their well-being and professional development opportunities, which have positively impacted the quality of education provided.
In summary, Offord Primary School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, with strong leadership and a well-structured curriculum. While there are areas for growth, particularly in writing, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement and success.
