Hill Top CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 April 2023

Pupils are proud to belong to this school. They are happy and safe. The school motto, 'Catch the spirit, learning to love, loving to learn, aspiring to serve', guides pupils' daily lives. Pupils meet the high expectations of their teachers. They know how to make positive choices. Pupils know the three simple rules: to 'be kind, respectful and ready'. As a result, they conduct themselves well in lessons and around school. They are proud to receive awards in celebration assembly on Friday each week. Pupils welcome visitors to Hill Top politely. They are keen to talk about their school. They describe strong and positive relationships in a school where everyone is valued. Bullying is rare. Pupils are confident that adults will help them if they have a concern. They know that adults deal with problems quickly. There are opportunities for pupils to develop their leadership skills. Pupils vote for their peers to become their representatives on the school, eco- and faith councils. They take their responsibilities seriously and organise special events, such as the fundraising event to raise awareness of Down's syndrome. Parents and carers are complimentary about the school. There are regular opportunities for them to see how well their child is learning in school. For instance, parents appreciate 'a cup of tea and read with me' events and the 'shine' assemblies. Leaders encourage close links between the school and the community it serves.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not ensured that all staff who support older and less confident readers deliver the phonics scheme accurately and confidently. As a result, weaker readers are not well supported to catch up quickly. Leaders should ensure that the staff attend the training they need to support older pupils to become fluent and confident readers.

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