Riverhead Infants' School

Overview

Pupils are described as "very happy" and "confident," with bullying being "extremely rare." The school provides an "ambitious" curriculum where the "vast majority of pupils learn to read fluently," though inconsistencies in delivery and curriculum design in some subjects hinder potential progress for certain learners.

Strengths

• Pupils are "respectful of each other" and know the "importance of being kind," resulting in rare disruption to learning.
• The curriculum is "ambitious for all," including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with children in the early years "thriving."
• In mathematics, teachers "act quickly to address any gaps," enabling pupils to use vocabulary accurately and apply correct methods.
• Personal development is "effective," with a clear programme helping pupils learn to "stay healthy" and build "positive relationships."
• Governors are "knowledgeable" and work closely with leaders to create a culture focused on "continuous improvement."

Areas to improve

• In a small number of subjects, leaders must ensure precise knowledge is "identified and carefully sequenced" so pupils retain what they have learned.
• The teaching of phonics requires improvement, as some pupils are not making expected progress; leaders need to ensure staff deliver it "consistently well."
• Leaders must monitor phonics delivery more effectively to ensure all staff have the knowledge to support pupils in catching up.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are "effective," with a "robust system of reporting" ensuring that pupils needing support are "quickly identified" and help is provided swiftly.