Thorn Grove Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The school has improved significantly since the last inspection. Staff and governors have worked together effectively to ensure that pupils are well taught, make good progress and are well cared for. The headteacher leads the school with clear vision and determination.

He is ambitious for all the pupils to achieve well and to develop a 'love of learning'. His work is praised by staff, pupils and most parents. Leaders have a good understanding of how well the school is performing.

Their improvement plans pinpoint what needs to be done to raise achievement and these are carefully monitored by governors. The quality of teaching, learning and... assessment has improved since the last inspection. It is currently strongest at key stage 2, where teachers' subject knowledge is good.

There are some inconsistencies in the teaching at key stage 1. Over time, standards at the end of key stage 1 have not risen as strongly as at key stage 2. The early years provision gives an effective start to children's school lives.

Routines are established early and relationships with adults are strong. Children are engaged, happy and safe in the setting. Attendance is in line with national averages and persistent absence has declined in the last year.

Pupils arrive at school on time and ready to learn. Senior leaders and staff have been successful in improving behaviour across the school. In the majority of lessons, pupils are attentive and eager to answer questions and get on with their work.

Disadvantaged pupils receive effective support which is carefully adapted to their needs. They are currently making progress broadly in line with other pupils nationally. Governors have the necessary skills to provide a good level of both challenge and support.

Their involvement in the school has contributed to the improvement in standards achieved. Leaders have ensured that the curriculum provides opportunities for learning in a range of subjects. It motivates and interests pupils and develops positive attitudes to learning.

Leaders do not always make sure that parents receive timely enough information about their children's progress, or that concerns are responded to quickly enough.

Information about this school

Thorn Grove is an average-sized primary school in the market town of Bishop's Stortford. The proportion of pupils who are eligible for free school meals is well below average.

The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic groups is broadly average. The proportion of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities is slightly lower than the national average. The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is above the national average.

The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is below the national average. No pupils at the school attend any alternative provision. The school has established an informal partnership with 15 other local schools.

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