Our early years provision was recently recognised as a strength of the school. Here are the main points from the early years section of the report:
'Over time, the number of children achieving a good level of development has been above average. This is because children benefit from good provision, strong teaching and a high level of personal attention.'
'Children are well behaved. This is because good habits and routines are established early. As a result, children know how to keep themselves safe, indoors and out, treat each other kindly and participate in activities harmoniously. For example, the lead inspector observed a group of girls in Reception happily engaged in role play together while unsupervised. The children led their own learning because they were calm and focused on the activity.'
'Children’s needs are well understood. This is because accurate assessment of their abilities when they enter the school, complemented by regular, ongoing assessment, provides staff with the information they need.'
'Early years staff benefit from the support and expertise provided by the multi-academy trust. Their training needs have been identified and are being met, for example through training in improving guided writing and tackling disadvantage.'
'The Reception teacher and nursery staff liaise effectively to ensure that there is a smooth transition for children as they move up the school. Frequent communication between staff and discussion of children’s needs mean that children feel comfortable and safe moving up to Reception.'
'Parents are involved in their child’s learning through use of the school’s online assessment system. This tool ensures that parents play an active part in following closely, and contributing to, their child’s progress.'
'Lines of accountability between trust and school leaders and early years staff are not clearly identifiable. This means that, currently, there is limited long-term strategic planning in place. This hinders early years staff from realising fully the potential of the provision. Nevertheless, children’s outcomes are good because provision supports their development well.'
Click here for the full report
