The Hackthorn Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school. Pupils' achievement is outstanding. They make exceptionally good progress as they move through the year groups.

Children in the Reception class receive very effective help and soon gain confidence so that they develop a genuine love of learning. Teaching is outstanding and brings out the best in each pupil. Teachers and teaching assistants have high expectations and pupils rise to meet these, because they are given a strong belief in their own capabilities.

All pupils, including those newly arrived, disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs and those who receive additional funding, make excellent progress. Thei...r abilities are quickly assessed and skilled support is put in place where needed. Pupils' behaviour, attitudes to learning and respect for each other are outstanding.

They willingly take responsibility for others and feel very safe. The school gives pupils many interesting and stimulating learning experiences, including trips and visits which bring topics to life. Every pupil is involved in school productions, which helps to motivate them and contributes strongly to their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Leadership is outstanding. Leaders are highly committed to continually improving the school, and their vision has instilled a deep commitment to learning in each individual within the school. Staff support for the longstanding headteacher has driven up standards and improved the quality of teaching across the school.

The governing body plays an important and successful role in supporting and challenging the school, to help secure improvements. The school continues to improve very well. One of the areas the school is currently working on is to simplify the tracking of how well Reception children are doing, in order to keep an even closer check.