Elmtree Infant and Nursery School

Overview

Elmtree Infant and Nursery School has “taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection.” Pupils are described as “happy and inquisitive learners” who feel safe and supported within a “kind and supportive school.” The report confirms that the school continues to provide high-quality education with strong leadership and a broad curriculum.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “ambitious, broad and balanced,” with careful design ensuring knowledge builds on earlier learning.
• Teachers demonstrate “secure subject knowledge” and are “astute in checking pupils’ understanding,” adapting teaching to address gaps promptly.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are identified swiftly and receive effective support to access the full curriculum.
• Staff effectively develop early years skills, including fine motor skills and language, preparing children well for key stage 1.
• The personal development programme supports pupils through diverse opportunities, such as charity work and outdoor learning in the ‘Wild Woods’.

Areas to improve

• The school must ensure newly implemented handwriting strategies are fully embedded so pupils join letters “accurately and consistently.” Currently, many pupils lack the required skills to join letters with automaticity.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”