Pupil behaviour and a rich curriculum have been praised at a Colchester infant and nursery school following a recent Ofsted inspection.
Staff and pupils at Monkwick Infant and Nursery School are celebrating after inspectors concluded, under the current national guidelines, that the school maintained the Good rating it achieved six years ago.
Following last month’s inspection, the report found that pupils were “happy and proud” to attend the school, with staff working hard to meet the needs of a diverse community and create a welcoming environment.
Inspectors said: “Pupils are polite, curious and friendly to each other, staff and visitors to the school. Pupils look out for each other and ensure everyone is included in class and at social times.
“The school has created a curriculum rich in language and subject-specific knowledge. It has been expertly designed.
“The school has high expectations for pupils and children in the early years. It constantly reviews and refines its approaches to ensure all pupils are challenged to achieve well. Pupils rise to this challenge.”
Headteacher Lotte Cumming said she was delighted that the two-day inspection reflected what day-to-day life at the school was like.
She explained: “The Ofsted report truly reflects the wonderful community we have here at Monkwick Infant and Nursery School.
“The report highlights the dedication, passion and hard work of the staff, who always go above and beyond to support every child in their learning and wellbeing. It also highlights how incredible the children are and their commitment to learning.
“At Monkwick Infant and Nursery School, we take great pride in fostering a nurturing and inspiring environment where all children can thrive. This report is a testament to the strong partnership between our staff, children, and families—something that makes our school so special.”
The school was also praised for prioritising reading and language “from the moment children start in Nursery or the Reception Year”.
Inspectors added: “Teachers use every opportunity to bring reading to life and develop pupils’ knowledge of books, stories and characters. Pupils have regular opportunities to read aloud and expressively. Consequently, pupils are excited to read.”
The school’s new character curriculum, running alongside high-quality personal, social, health and economic education was also highlighted, to give pupils “a clear understanding of what it means to be kind, work together and contribute positively”.
To find out more about Monkwick Infant and Nursery School, please contact the school on 01206 573849.
