Newton Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 March 2023

Everyone contributes to the calm and purposeful atmosphere at Newton Primary School. Staff have high expectations of all pupils, including children in the early years. Staff ensure that pupils learn how to share and work cooperatively. Pupils work hard. They have positive attitudes, and lessons are rarely disrupted. Playtimes are busy, with lots of activities. Pupils play well together. They say unkindness or bullying occasionally happens, but adults quickly resolve it. Staff consider the reasons behind such behaviour. Leaders support all pupils involved. Pupils are confident to tell trusted adults about their worries, or they put these in the rainbow post box. Leaders act on the worries raised by pupils. Pupils are enthusiastic and eager to play an active role in school. They are proud to apply for one of the many 'ambassador' roles. Pupils give speeches to explain their suitability for a role. Elected safety ambassadors help on the playground, and the eco-ambassadors look after the school's chickens. The house captains prepare and lead assemblies to teach everyone about fundamental British values. Pupils and staff are proud of their school. Relationships are strong between school and home. Parents greatly appreciate that Newton Primary is a friendly and nurturing school, where the pupils achieve well.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not have as much subject and pedagogical knowledge as they need in a few recently reviewed subjects. This means they lack the expertise to teach these subjects consistently to ensure that pupils achieve well across all subjects. Leaders must ensure that staff have the professional development they need to implement their new, ambitious and clearly sequenced plans effectively.

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