North Petherwin School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. All groups of pupils make good progress during their time at school, especially the most able in mathematics.

Teaching in mathematics is particularly effective because pupils are placed in small groups where they are expected to work at a fast pace on challenging problems. Pupils develop self-confidence in speaking because they are given plenty of opportunity to practise and they are made to feel that all their contributions are valued. Pupils begin to read from as early as the nursery and there are plenty of books available to suit all tastes.

Many pupils were seen reading outside, choosing books from a large book box during playtime. T...eachers mostly plan lessons well, using interesting resources which pupils enjoy, and ask challenging questions which encourage pupils to think deeply about their work. Teaching assistants are effective in helping pupils who find work difficult.

They often rephrase instructions and ask questions in a different way to make sure that pupils understand. Pupils behave well, they participate enthusiastically in lessons and they are well looked after. They feel safe and happy.

The leadership of the school has a clear view of the strengths and weaknesses of the school and is constantly making sure that it continues to improve even further. The school has undergone some significant changes in the past year. These changes have been well managed by the leaders and governors and have enabled the school to share resources, including staff, and to remain financially stable.

It is not yet an outstanding school because : In some English lessons, teachers do not plan tasks which stretch the most able pupils to write at length, especially those in Year 3. Marking does not always help pupils to see what they need to do to improve.

Information about this school

The school is much smaller than the average-sized primary school.

Pupils are taught in three mixed-age classes. Children in the Reception Year are taught in the same class as pupils from Years 1 and 2. Pupils in other years are also taught in mixed-age classes.

All pupils are from White British backgrounds. There are currently no disabled pupils and the percentage of those with special educational needs supported at school action is below the national average. The proportion of pupils supported through a statement or school action plus is above the national average.

The proportion of pupils who are known to be eligible for the pupil premium, additional funding provided by the government for pupils in the care of the local authority, pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and those from service families, is below average. There are currently no pupils from service families or in the care of the local authority. In 2012 the school met the current floor standards which set the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress.

The school has a nursery on site which was visited as part of this inspection. The school federated with another local primary school in April 2012 and a new headteacher was appointed in September 2012. The headteacher and governing body are shared with the other school.