Staff, governors and pupils at Norbury Manor Primary School are celebrating after Ofsted judged the school to be ‘good’ with ‘outstanding’ early years provision.
In their report Ofsted attributed the high standards at the school in Abingdon Road, Norbury, to the focused and effective leadership of the new headteacher, governors and senior leaders, with their hard work and clear vision truly paying off. Inspectors found that the headteacher has created a dynamic, enthusiastic and effective team of senior leaders who are ‘ambitious for the school and its community’ and this has ‘clearly rubbed off on pupils.’
Ofsted highlighted how teachers ‘give pupils advice which is effective and ensures they make good progress in reading, writing and mathematics.’ The school values ‘underpin school life’ – pupils know what these mean and how to demonstrate them in their everyday lives. Pupils vote for school councillors and a head boy and head girl, helping them understand the principles of democracy and ensuring their views are heard. For example, pupils had the final say in choosing the new catering company. The school also celebrates the diversity of its community, helping pupils appreciate life in modern Britain.
The teaching of phonics at Norbury Manor is a particular strength. Teachers challenge and motivate pupils to try their hardest and this helps them make strong gains in their learning. This is confirmed by recent KS1 and KS2 results, which show a very rapid improvement in phonics. Ofsted also found that pupils who have special education needs and/or disabilities make good progress and outcomes for disadvantaged pupils are good. The behaviour and attendance of pupils is good, and the children are kind and courteous. They have positive attitudes to learning and they say they feel safe and enjoy coming to school.
There is a calm and harmonious atmosphere in the ‘outstanding’ early year’s provision and children make really strong progress from their starting points in all areas of learning. The early years staff work as an exceptionally cohesive and effective team, and children are particularly kind and generous for their age. They have a range of exciting and stimulating activities that engage and interest them, and are designed to help them develop as many skills as possible.
Headteacher Sonia Potter said: ‘Our priority is to ensure that our pupils receive an excellent education in a nurturing environment that encourages our pupils to Make Every Moment Count. I am very proud to be part of the Norbury Manor Primary team who were delighted to receive a rating of good with an outstanding early years provision. I would also like to congratulate the children for their fantastic part in the judgement and thank all the parents/carers for the positive feedback they gave the inspectors. ”
Chair of Governors, Cllr Maggie Mansell, said “I am immensely proud of the staff, the governors and the children of Norbury Manor. They have all worked so hard, focusing on what needed to be done to achieve good outcomes. We are on a journey to outstanding.”
“Well done to everyone at Norbury Manor Primary School. A good education is one of the most important things we can offer children and young people to ensure they have the best possible start in life. It’s great to see another Croydon school delivering.”.
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning
