Woodthorpe Junior and Infant school provides an outstanding education for its pupils. Its excellent curriculum ensures that pupils achieve very well from starting points that are typically broadly in line with expected levels. Attainment by the end of Year 6 has been significantly above the national average for a number of years.
The headteacher's thoughtful and inspirational leadership and management continue to underpin the success of the school. She is supported exceptionally well by a very strong and experienced team of teachers and practitioners, each of whom makes a valuable contribution to the development and success of the school and to promoting pupils' outstanding progress. The school plays a... central part within the community and is greatly valued by most parents and carers, the very large majority of whom are happy with their children's experience at the school.
One parent wrote, 'The communication with parents about children's learning is excellent, especially the parent workshops and weekly homework workbooks.' Much of the teaching across the school is outstanding and never less than consistently good. Children in the Early Years Foundation Stage make good progress in developing their skills and knowledge across a wide range of areas.
Their overall achievement is good. The very high quality and consistency of the teaching of reading and the sounds letters make is demonstrated in the very high standards achieved at both key stages. There is accurate and rigorous evaluation of all aspects of the school's provision and performance.
Assessment and tracking systems are precise and thorough. Pupils have well-developed personal skills and a good understanding of how to keep safe. Pupils' behaviour is good.
Pupils respond very enthusiastically when asked if they enjoy coming to school but this is not yet reflected in their attendance levels.
Information about the school
This is a smaller than average-sized primary school. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for free school meals is below average.
The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic groups is much higher than average. The proportion of pupils for who speak English as an additional language is above average. The proportion of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs is below that typically found.
The school meets the current government floor standard, which sets the minimum expectations for attainment and progress. Breakfast and after school clubs are provided onsite, which are managed privately and are subject separate inspections. The school has gained Healthy Schools status and the Football Association Charter Standard for Schools award.
