The Nene Infant & Nursery School

Overview

The report describes a school where pupils are "supported to do their best" within a "nurturing environment" that makes them feel "safe and valued." Leaders have driven "rapid improvements" since the previous inspection, establishing a clear vision with high expectations that is supported by all staff.

Strengths

• The curriculum is well-designed, with a "strong focus on the development of early language and communication skills" in the nursery.
• Reading is a priority; "phonics is consistently well taught," and almost all pupils "learn to read fluently."
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) "learn well" due to clear support plans and effective lesson adaptations.
• Staff morale is high, with staff feeling "valued and appreciated" and workload managed effectively.
• Governors hold leaders to account effectively, and the trust provides secure oversight of the school’s work.

Areas to improve

• In a few curriculum areas, teachers do not routinely choose activities that link closely enough to curriculum plans, hindering pupils' ability to remember content.
• Leaders should provide additional training in these areas and check that this has the desired impact on pupils' knowledge.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a "strong safeguarding culture," rigorous recruitment checks, and thorough record-keeping of concerns.