Norbury Primary School and Nursery

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils at Norbury Primary school thrive in school, academically, personally and socially.

This is demonstrated both by the outcomes pupils achieve as well as in how passionately they speak about their learning across the curriculum. By far the majority of parents are positive and grateful for all the school's work. One parent's comment was typical of many when they stated, 'we can't be thankful enough for their work.'



Pupils behave extremely well in this small village school. Relationships between staff and pupils are particularly strong. Pupils are polite and well mannered and show respect for others.

They are highly engaged in lessons and work an...d play together very well. Pupils have confidence that staff will support them if any issues occur.

Leaders have high aspirations for all pupils.

The school's motto of 'take a RISK to be the best you can be' are lived and breathed. Resilience, integrity, support and kindness underpin all the school's work. Pupils have a deep understanding of what they are.

They practise them in their learning as well as in the wide range of outdoor activities the school offers, such as forest school, residential activities and mountain biking.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has constructed a curriculum that carefully considers the mixed-aged classes in which pupils are taught. This curriculum builds effectively from the early years.

It clearly identifies what pupils need to remember over time. As a result, all pupils develop a rich body of knowledge that enables them to make connections between different subjects and topics. For example, pupils explain how, after learning about circuits in science, they are then able to make circuits to power vehicles they have made in design and technology.

Teachers deliver curriculum subjects very effectively. They use assessment strategies successfully to check that pupils have firmly understood earlier concepts and ideas. When needed, teachers provide appropriate support for pupils to ensure that any gaps or misconceptions in earlier learning are addressed effectively.

Teachers ensure that pupils practise and revise what they have previously learned. For example, in mathematics, pupils are encouraged to deepen their learning through the use of 'rainbow questions'.

Staff are well trained to deliver the phonics programme consistently well.

Children in Reception quickly learn the sounds that letters represent. Staff provide additional support for those pupils who struggle with reading. This helps these pupils to catch up quickly.

The books that pupils read closely match the sounds that they have learned. This supports them in becoming confident, fluent readers by the end of Year 2. A love of reading permeates the school.

All pupils are read to daily. They are encouraged to share books they have enjoyed at home in school.

The school is tenacious in ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) get the best possible support.

Their particular needs are identified early. The school then ensures that they get the specific support they need in lessons and other support when necessary.

Children in the early years make a fantastic start to school life.

Adults spend time getting to know children. They use this information very well to support the children in their learning. There is a real focus on developing children's language and physical development.

Children learn well because staff make sure that they practise in their play what has previously been taught. For example, children learn how to make simple repeating patterns with natural objects with the teacher outside. They are then able to make their own repeating patterns using collage materials in their own play inside.

The school makes sure that learning is enjoyable so that pupils want to attend school. As a result, nearly all pupils attend school well. The school works closely with families to support them so that lower pupil attendance can be improved.

Provision for pupils' personal development is exceptional. All pupils visit several cities, including Liverpool and Wolverhampton. This helps them to understand cultural and social diversity.

The school provides a range of experiences that enhance pupils' learning and a huge array of extra-curricular activities. Pupils' talents and interests are nurtured. For example, a pupil who has an interest in farming led an educational visit to his farm for younger pupils.

Governors are passionate and share the school's high ambition. They look for ways to reduce staff workload and consider their well-being.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

Also at this postcode