Newnham Infant and Nursery School

Overview

Newnham Infant and Nursery School continues to be a good school, where pupils are described as happy, safe, and proud members of the community. Leaders have designed a curriculum that exceeds national standards in many areas, with high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The school fosters strong relationships between staff and pupils, promoting positive behaviour and personal development through a wide range of enrichment activities.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate "positive attitudes in lessons" and behave sensibly, showing self-discipline and respect for one another.
• Reading is a clear priority, with staff delivering phonics consistently and helping pupils who have fallen behind to "catch up quickly".
• The early years provision is well-planned, ensuring children develop independence and collaborative skills that "set them up well for when they enter Year 1".
• Staff accurately identify pupil needs and work effectively with external agencies to support those with SEND, adapting learning so they can access the full curriculum.
• Governors "know the school well" and provide appropriate support and challenge to school leaders.

Areas to improve

• In some foundation subjects, recent curriculum changes are not fully embedded, meaning staff do not always ensure new learning builds on prior knowledge, leaving pupils’ knowledge insecure.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.