Polebrook Church of England Primary School, located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 20 September 2023. The headteacher, Lou Coulthard, leads the school, which is part of the Rutland Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Robert Gooding and a board of trustees chaired by James Benedict John Saunders. The school is known for its inclusive and welcoming environment, where pupils feel safe and happy. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction, noting the genuine care shown by staff.
Pupils respond positively to the high expectations set by their teachers, resulting in busy and purposeful classrooms. They are encouraged to think independently and engage enthusiastically in their learning. The school has a strong focus on reading, with most pupils achieving well in this area. The curriculum promotes spiritual, social, moral, and cultural development through various events, including reading festivals and trips, which enrich the pupils' educational experience.
The school has established a strong culture of reading, supported by recent investments in new reading materials. Pupils look forward to storytime and actively participate in discussions about the stories they read. The teaching of phonics and early reading is effective, with staff well-trained in delivering the phonics scheme. Most pupils meet the expected reading standards by the end of Year 1, although some struggle with blending sounds into words. The school is aware of the need to enhance support for these pupils to ensure they achieve their potential.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff equipped with the necessary information to assist them effectively. The school collaborates with parents and external services to provide the required support for these pupils. Teachers generally demonstrate good subject knowledge and plan engaging lessons. However, there are instances where the pace of lessons may be too quick, leading to some pupils not fully grasping the material before moving on. The school is actively working to address this issue.
Personal development is taken seriously, with the curriculum for personal, social, economic, and health education interwoven with Christian and British values. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of equality and respect for others. Leadership at the school is strong, with leaders having a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders mindful of their well-being and workload.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all staff consistently check pupils' understanding before progressing to new learning tasks. This will help prevent gaps in knowledge and maintain pupils' focus and concentration.
Overall, Polebrook Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong emphasis on reading and personal development. The school is committed to addressing identified areas for improvement to enhance the learning experience for all pupils. The positive relationships among staff, pupils, and parents contribute to a supportive and nurturing educational environment.
