Horncastle Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a school that requires improvement The quality of teaching and learning across key stage 1 and key stage 2 is inconsistent. Recent improvements are not yet effectively embedded across all classes. Too few pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, make the progress they should in reading, writing and mathematics by the end of key stage 2.

The difference between the attainment of disadvantaged pupils and others nationally is too great by the end of key stage 2 and in some year groups. Until recently, leaders have not ensured that the additional funding received by the school for disadvantaged pupils is used effectively. Some teachers do not set work for pupi...ls that is sufficiently challenging.

Some pupils do not spend enough time developing a thorough understanding of subjects, particularly mathematics. Teachers are occasionally too slow to deal with pupils' misconceptions in their learning. This hinders their progress, particularly in English and mathematics.

Teachers do not provide enough opportunities for pupils to write at length in order to practise and develop their writing skills. Middle leaders are in the early stages of developing the necessary skills to lead their areas of responsibility. The school has the following strengths Senior leaders have brought stability and renewed energy to the leadership of the school.

They are leading necessary improvements well. Governors have an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses. Plans for improvement are sharply focused and evaluated.

The large majority of pupils attain the expected standards at the end of the early years, key stage 1 and key stage 2. Pupils' personal development and welfare are developed well through the school's curriculum. Relationships between pupils and staff are caring and positive.

Children in the early years make a good start to their school lives. They are nurtured and make good progress in their learning.

Information about this school

Horncastle Community Primary School is a larger than average-sized primary school.

The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is just above the national average. The proportions of pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds and of pupils who speak English as an additional language are below those seen nationally. The proportion of pupils with SEND is below the national average.

The school receives support from the local authority and accesses training and guidance for staff from the Wellspring Multi-Academy Trust. The school has nursery provision for children from the age of 3 years. The school runs a daily breakfast club.