Ofsted praises St Nicholas Primary, Church following inspection

St Nicholas Church of England Primary School were visited by inspectors in March and was deemed to be meeting the expected standard in all judgement areas.

Ofsted identified that pupils were “accepted, loved and helped” to understand their worth and potential.

Inspectors said: “Pupils are warmly welcomed by staff into the school yard each morning. Staff know each pupil’s needs and ensure that they feel safe and valued.

"Pupils feel a sense of belonging. They know who to talk to if they are worried. They are confident that adults will deal with any concerns well.

“Pupils, including those who face barriers to learning, live up to the high expectations leaders set for them.

“Children in the early years make a confident start to their education. Pupils achieve well across the curriculum and are fully prepared for the next stage of their education.”

Students were seen making steady progress through the curriculum and achieving outcomes in national tests that are in line with what is typical across the country.

Ofsted said that the most able learners would benefit from deepening their understanding, but leaders had taken steps to address this.

Pupils were seen to benefit from a behaviour system built on strong relationships with staff, and recent changes have been seen to strengthen it.

Inspectors added: “Pupils are welcoming and polite. In lessons, they listen with curiosity.

“Leaders have created a calm and orderly environment where pupils move sensibly around corridors and play positively in the playground.

“Pupils engage confidently with visitors and are keen to talk about their learning and experiences, reflecting a culture of courtesy and respect.”

An “ambitious, broad and balanced curriculum” was seen across the school, with a sharp focus on communication, language, reading and vocabulary.

Improvements in learning environment and curriculum in the early years were also praised, with leaders and staff establishing effective partnerships with parents and carers so that children feel safe, happy and ready to learn.

Leaders were seen to show an “unwavering commitment to inclusion” and are continually responsive to their changing context.

Ofsted said: “Leaders tailor their approaches to support disadvantaged pupils. Additional funding is spent wisely to help these pupils thrive in their education.

“Leaders also make sure that disadvantaged pupils take part in enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities provided at the school.

"As a result, disadvantaged pupils benefit from all aspects of school.”