Caston Church of England Primary Academy, located in Norfolk, has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on September 13 and 14, 2023, and evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were also rated as good. The school is led by headteacher Sarah Disney and is part of The Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust, which provides additional oversight and support.
Pupils at Caston Church of England Primary Academy report high levels of happiness and engagement. The school fosters a welcoming environment where older and younger students interact positively during breaks. The school emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are encouraged to achieve their best from the moment they enter Reception. The curriculum has been redeveloped over the past two years, focusing on essential knowledge and skills, and prioritizing reading from the outset. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, which has contributed to pupils' reading success.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs, music tuition, and educational trips, which help students explore new interests and contribute to their local community. For instance, pupils organized a sponsored walk to support a local food bank, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility. The school promotes respect and tolerance, with students welcoming newcomers and displaying politeness towards staff and visitors.
Despite the positive aspects, the inspection identified areas for improvement. Many teachers are new to the school and are still establishing consistent behavior management routines. This has led to occasional disruptions in lessons, affecting the learning environment. The school is encouraged to continue supporting teachers in developing effective classroom management strategies to minimize disruptions. Additionally, attendance rates for pupils with special educational needs remain low, partly due to ongoing medical issues. The school needs to refine its monitoring of attendance for these students to identify patterns and implement strategies for improvement.
The personal development program at the school is comprehensive, covering essential topics through relationships, sex, and health education, as well as collective worship. Pupils appreciate the opportunities provided for their growth in this area. The school has also experienced changes in local governance, but the trust has ensured continuity in support and challenge, contributing to ongoing improvements.
Safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection team engaged with various stakeholders, including the headteacher, staff, and representatives from the trust, to assess the school's performance comprehensively. The school has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement, with staff expressing satisfaction with the support they receive in managing their workload and well-being.
Overall, Caston Church of England Primary Academy is a good school that provides a supportive and inclusive environment for its pupils. With ongoing efforts to enhance behavior management and attendance monitoring, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and further improve the educational experience for all students.
