St Andrew's CofE First School

Overview

St Andrew’s CofE First School is described as an inclusive community where pupils are “nurtured and very well cared for,” resulting in strong behaviour and high attendance. The report highlights that staff have “high ambitions for every pupil,” which are “commonly realised” through an ambitious curriculum and effective support for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Strengths

• Personal development is judged as “Outstanding,” with pupils being “exceptionally well prepared for later life” through a wide range of activities and character-building lessons.
• Reading is a clear priority; “teaching of phonics is strong,” and staff provide targeted support so that “most pupils read at an age-appropriate level.”
• Pupils with SEND are “very well supported” with bespoke interventions, allowing them to “overcome barriers to learning and achieve well.”
• The school fosters “warm and respectful relationships,” creating a “calm and orderly” environment where pupils are “welcoming, curious and courteous.”
• Senior leaders are “dedicated to and passionate about their school,” working effectively with parents and ensuring staff feel valued.

Areas to improve

• Some staff do not routinely adapt teaching to extend learning for pupils ready for new content, which “slows the learning of those pupils.”
• The school should ensure all staff have the expertise to support pupils’ learning effectively, particularly in moving capable learners on quickly.

Safeguarding

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