Edith Cavell Academy and Nursery

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 February 2023

Pupils enjoy coming to school, where they feel safe. Pupils appreciate that the teachers are kind to them and that at their school there are 'no outsiders'. Everyone is welcome. Pupils play together well. They share equipment and enjoy a range of different games and activities at playtimes. They say that sometimes bullying does happen, but they know who to speak to and it gets sorted quickly. Pupils are enthusiastic about their learning. In class, pupils listen carefully to each other. They talk confidently about their learning and are keen to share their ideas. Pupils achieve well. From an early age, children develop their understanding of the world around them, including the outdoors. Pupils benefit from a wide range of trips, visits and 'theme days' that extend their experience and help make their learning memorable. They are knowledgeable about different cultures and traditions. Pupils respond positively to the extra responsibilities they are given, such as being a school ambassador or representing others as a member of the school council. Older pupils are responsible role models. Pupils attend a wide range of clubs, which enable them to develop their wider interests, such as singing, book craft and cooking.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, teachers do not provide sufficient opportunities for pupils to link current learning to what they have learned before. As a result, some pupils find it difficult to recall important knowledge and make connections in their learning. Leaders should ensure that across all subjects, teachers consistently plan lessons that enable pupils to revisit important knowledge and help pupils build on what they have learned before.
• The programme for teaching phonics and early reading is newly implemented. Some of the younger pupils are not yet using their phonics knowledge well when they are writing independently and, as a result, pupils' writing lacks accuracy and fluency. Leaders should ensure that the programme is fully and consistently implemented to help pupils to use their phonics knowledge in their writing.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)