New River College Primary

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 June 2023

Leaders are ambitious for all pupils' academic achievement and personal development. Leaders work closely with families and outside professional organisations to ensure that pupils are well prepared to start at the school. Pupils settle in quickly, make friends and grow in confidence. At breaktimes, pupils are lively and happy, playing games and interacting positively with each other and staff. Lessons are generally calm and focused. Staff recognise promptly if pupils are becoming unsettled and know exactly the approach needed to help each pupil return to their learning swiftly. Pupils are considerate to each other. Older pupils enjoy reading books together, helping each other if they get stuck. Pupils show caring attitudes, for example if anyone is not feeling well. Pupils are proud to take on positions of responsibility. 'Equality and diversity pupil ambassadors' talked about their work, which includes encouraging others to be nice to each other, especially if there is ever any rare incident of unkindness. Leaders ensure that pupils know to talk to a trusted adult in school if they are worried about anything. Pupils are safe in school. Pupils frequently have opportunities to go on educational visits to museums, theatres and parks to enrich their learning and broaden their experiences.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have chosen a new scheme for the teaching of phonics. Some staff have not completed the required training. Leaders should continue with the planned programme of training to ensure that all staff supporting pupils with early reading have the necessary expertise in teaching phonics.

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