Trent Vale Infant School

Overview

Trent Vale Infant School has “taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection.” The report describes a “loving school” with a “welcoming ethos” where pupils feel safe and enjoy learning. Leaders and governors are united in their vision, ensuring high expectations and supporting staff well-being.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate “excellent” behaviour, following clear routines and showing pride in their school community.
• Reading is highly prioritised, with staff skilfully monitoring progress through phonics so that “pupils learn to read well.”
• The curriculum is “well-sequenced” and ambitious, particularly in core subjects, with logical progression from early years.
• Personal development is strong, with pupils knowledgeable about different faiths, cultures, and safety issues.
• Staff receive “comprehensive professional development” and share expertise across the federation.

Areas to improve

• Staff should systematically check pupils’ understanding during lessons to prevent time being spent on work they can already do, ensuring faster curriculum progression.
• The school should ensure each subject has clear curriculum outcomes, particularly in areas currently under review, so pupils can recall knowledge with confidence.

Safeguarding

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