A GOOD school where teaching is "consistently good and often outstanding" – that's the judgement of Ofsted inspectors on St Ives Infant School.
The report praises the children's progress, attainment, behaviour and independent learning. "Pupils are taught to think and learn for themselves from the time they start at the school," say the inspectors.
"This whole-school focus on making pupils independent learners ensures they are able to make good progress and extend their learning."
The inspectors noted: "Children in the nursery and reception classes receive a good start to their school life in a vibrant and creative environment. Many make progress that is well above what would be expected.
"Above-average attainment by the end of Year 2 ensures they are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
"The Setting Sails topic-based curriculum [developed by the school itself and rooted in the children's own interests, ideas and questions] is outstanding, providing pupils with opportunities to develop their own learning within a framework that is monitored by teachers to ensure that pupils acquire all the basic skills required to develop them as lifelong learners."
Pupils are very proud of their school, the inspectors report, and are well behaved and eager to learn.
The inspectors noted strong teamwork and high morale among staff, while teaching assistants skilfully supported pupils' learning in lessons.
The report also praised the quality of leadership of staff throughout the school and by the governors.
The inspectors identified three areas in which improvement was required: developing a more consistent approach to the teaching of phonics, challenging the older children to spell more accurately and working with parents to improve the school's attendance rate.
Head teacher Joanne Dean said: "I'm delighted the inspectors recognised and celebrated the children's achievements and could see the priority placed on independent learning and the discovery and development of individual interests and talents."
Chair of governors John McWilliams said: "The governors are delighted with the school's Ofsted report and congratulate Joanne and all her colleagues.
"I'm really pleased that Ofsted recognises the value of the school's Setting Sail curriculum and that this has been achieved in an ethos where all members of the school community, children and adults, are respected, valued, supported and encouraged to fulfil their potential."
