North Molton Primary School, located in Devon, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils express enjoyment in attending. They quickly adapt to the environment, understanding the school's values that promote kindness, respect, and a commitment to excellence. Parents and carers have overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly regarding the supportive and caring nature of the staff, which contributes to a positive start for children.
The headteacher and staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in polite and courteous students who adhere to school rules. This positive behavior is evident from the early years, where children demonstrate good listening skills, cooperative play, and mutual respect. Pupils feel safe and valued, appreciating the strong relationships they have with staff, who are trusted to address any concerns or conflicts sensitively.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including gardening, yoga, music, and opportunities to engage with the community through the school council and charity fundraising. These activities foster a sense of responsibility among pupils and encourage them to set positive examples for their peers.
Leaders at North Molton Primary School have established a well-structured curriculum with high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Reading is prioritized, with pupils demonstrating increasing fluency and expression. They engage with a variety of texts, often finding themselves captivated by the stories. Phonics instruction begins early, with staff receiving training to effectively teach new sounds, ensuring that pupils gain confidence in their reading abilities.
Mathematics instruction is also well-structured, starting in the early years and building progressively. Teachers utilize resources effectively to enhance pupils' understanding of mathematical concepts, enabling them to confidently recognize number patterns and apply their knowledge in practical contexts.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. In some subjects, leaders are still developing systems to assess pupils' knowledge retention over time. This has led to gaps in understanding for some pupils, particularly in geography, where older students struggle to apply their knowledge effectively. Additionally, subject leadership is not fully developed, which affects leaders' understanding of their subjects and the impact of the curriculum.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils. Leaders foster a culture of safety, providing staff with up-to-date training and collaborating with external professionals to support vulnerable pupils and their families. Pupils are educated on safety in both real and online environments, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information.
Overall, North Molton Primary School is a good school with a positive learning environment, high expectations for behavior and achievement, and a commitment to the personal development of its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in assessment practices and subject leadership, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement and success. The supportive community, dedicated staff, and engaged pupils contribute to a thriving educational experience that prepares students for their future endeavors.
