S T A N D A R D I N S P E C T I O N 3

Accommodation Overall, the quality of the accommodation was good. The school had extensive space for teaching and learning. Generally, the building was in good order, but some areas required redecoration.

Teaching areas were generally of an appropriate size. The school had used additional teaching space to provide a very good computer suite, a library and other subject-dedicated teaching areas. There were spacious grounds with a good mix of gardens and grassed and hard play areas.

A few health and safety issues were drawn to the attention of the headteacher.

Staffing and resources Overall, the school was well staffed. Teachers had an appropriate range of experience and skills. Class teachers were well supported by a number of specialists for part of the week. Support staff carried out their duties efficiently.

Resources for teaching and learning were good and had been very well organised. Materials for English language were in very good supply. More software, particularly for mathematics, was required to take full advantage of the very good computer provision. The headteacher managed the school’s devolved budget very effectively.

Curriculum The nursery curriculum covered all aspects identified in national advice. Planning was undertaken regularly but needed to specify more clearly what the children were expected to learn.

· The programme for emotional, personal and social development was very good. Children were happy and secure in nursery routines. Many were independent, co- operative and persevering.

· In the programme for communication and language very good attention was paid to the development of children’s early reading and writing skills. Children listened and responded very well to stories and rhymes.

· The programme for knowledge and understanding of the world was very good. Staff provided a variety of activities to encourage children’s skills of observation and enquiry. Children had good opportunities to sort, classify and count.

· The programme for expressive and aesthetic development was good. Children were developing a range of skills and techniques in art. They enjoyed singing and role play.

· In physical development and movement children had very good opportunities to develop control over fine movements. Very good use of the outdoor area and school gym enabled children to experience regular energetic physical play.

The primary curriculum gave appropriate attention to all of the areas included in national advice. However, there was a need to monitor more closely the match between what teachers planned and the actual balance of pupils’ experience of the different areas of the curriculum.