Northampton primary school slips from 'good' to 'requires improvement' as head 'launches action plan'

The education watchdog has told Woodvale Primary Academy, in Crestwood Road, its curriculum is not good enough for pupils learning science, maths and phonics.

It comes after three inspectors visited the school during a one-day inspection in November that rated the school as 'requires improvement'.

In the report, written by lead inspector Liz Moore, which was published this month, she said: 'The curriculum plans for science and some foundation subjects do not contain enough detail for teachers to know what pupils need to learn and the order in which they must learn it.

'Lessons do not reliably build on what pupils already know and can do.

"Leaders must make sure that the curriculum plans for all subjects are well-sequenced and followed by staff'.

Matthew Reetz joined as the principle in September 2019 and he and the leadership team are "implementing an action plan," which is already delivering positive results, Greenwood Academies Trust said.

The inspectors made positive remarks about how pupils are happy at the school and their 'behaviour and attitudes to learning are strong'.

Inspector, Liz Moore, added: 'They feel safe, behave well and try their best. They feel that bullying does not happen often and that it is dealt with quickly if it does.

'The new principal has made some positive changes. They know that there are further improvements to make. Leaders have high expectations for all pupils to do well'.

Pupils can go to ‘Maggie’s Room’ where an adult will support them if they need help to make friends and they enjoy activities and clubs on offer including tag rugby, netball and orienteering.

The spokeswoman for the Greenwood Academies Trust added: "We will continue to work hard every day to drive the continuous improvement of the academy.

"We are pleased that Ofsted recognised that our community of pupils, parents, and staff are all so supportive and positive about our academy and we thank them for their ongoing support.”