Northdown Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 November 2021

Pupils describe Northdown Primary School as, 'fun', 'happy' and 'calm'. They feel safe and well cared for. Pupils appreciate and remember the school's values of harmony, curiosity, courage, determination, and aspiration. Pupils behave well and are kind to each other. When bullying does happen, staff take action to stop it. Pupils understand the school's rules and are happy to follow them. They told us that pupils' behaviour has improved over the past year and that they can do their work without being distracted. Teachers have high expectations of pupils and classrooms are calm and purposeful. Pupils who need extra help in following teachers' instructions are supported effectively by well-trained pastoral staff. During social times, pupils use the play equipment in the playground or sit together and chat. Some play games like mini-golf or football. Pupils are quick to react when teachers tell them that playtime is over. Pupils line up sensibly and are ready to learn by the time they go back into their classrooms. They are keen to attend the after-school groups that have recently been started. Hockey, art and textiles are popular groups with pupils.

What the school should improve

• Teachers' subject knowledge in some curriculum areas is not as well developed as it could be. Consequently, their explanations of what pupils need to learn are sometimes not clear enough. Leaders should ensure that staff are trained equally well to deliver all subjects in the curriculum effectively so that pupils learn well in all subjects.
• Pupils' attendance has improved over the past two years overall. However, too many pupils are persistently absent. Leaders should continue their work to improve pupils' attendance so that fewer pupils are persistently absent.

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