Northgate Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 November 2023

Pupils have a thirst for learning. They work hard and achieve well, particularly in reading and mathematics. Pupils appreciate the opportunities they get to develop outside the classroom. Most pupils grow into articulate, well-rounded individuals by the time they leave. Adults have established clear routines for pupils to follow. They have high expectations of pupils' conduct and attitudes to learning. These are well understood, even by the youngest children. As a result, the atmosphere around the school is calm. Pupils feel safe. They learn well in their classrooms and play happily on the playground. Pupils enjoy the clubs on offer. Some of these are led by the older pupils. There are many such opportunities for pupils to develop responsibility and leadership skills. House captains enjoy running the school shop. Executive councillors set the agenda for wider school council meetings. The well-being, diversity and inclusion council considers ways to support the whole school community. A deliberately planned series of themed days or weeks enhances the curriculum. On RE (religious education) day, pupils explored the creation story. They reflected on scientific alternatives. A 'take one picture' event generated high quality writing and artwork inspired by L S Lowry.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, the curriculum has been recently reviewed and is in a transitional or early stage of development. Pupils do not learn as well in these subjects as the school would like them to. The school should continue to prioritise the implementation of these new curriculums, including supporting staff to design sequences of lessons that will deepen pupils' understanding.

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