The Cedars Primary School

Overview

The Cedars Primary School is described as a "nurturing school" where pupils "flourish" and feel "safe and happy." The inspection judged the school’s overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour, personal development, and leadership as "Good," noting a commitment to "personalised learning programmes" for pupils with special educational needs.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "broad, balanced" and carefully tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of pupils with SEND.
• Staff model expectations in a "consistent and caring manner," resulting in "positive" conduct and rare incidents of bullying.
• Reading is treated as a "priority," with "expert teaching" and daily reading sessions helping pupils develop secure phonics skills.
• Leaders have "high expectations" for attendance and work closely with families to address barriers, leading to improving attendance rates.
• Pupils receive support for their "mental well-being" and are taught to respect the "cultures, faiths and beliefs of others."

Areas to improve

• In "a few foundation subjects," curriculum thinking does not identify precisely what pupils need to know, limiting the development of "deeper knowledge and skills."
• Professional development opportunities are not consistent across all areas, meaning some staff "lack the expertise" to fully implement the curriculum and meet all pupils’ needs.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."