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15
Nov
Ofsted praises primary school near Harrogate with ‘limitless aspirations’
Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary School has been praised by Ofsted.
The report followed an inspection at the school on October 8.
The primary school, which was previously rated ‘good’, was graded across four categories. It is the school’s first inspection since the government scrapped single-word judgements in September.
Quality of education was rated ‘good’; behaviour and attitudes were graded ‘outstanding’; personal development was also ‘outstanding’, and leadership and management were ‘good’.
Government inspectors said the school, which is federated with Ripley Endowed Church of England Primary School and Beckwithshaw Primary School, is a “small school with a big heart” with “limitless aspirations for all”.
They praised the school’s unwavering commitment to providing every pupil with the best educational experiences possible, and said the 41 pupils are “extremely happy”.
Inspectors described behaviour as exemplary, adding:
Relationships between pupils and staff are positive.
Pupils’ roles and additional responsibilities help them to develop their leadership skills. Pupils feel they have a voice and make a difference.
Staff were praised for the “well-thought-out” curriculum, which ensures pupils’ knowledge and skills can build over time, while inspectors found pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive high-quality support.
“Pupils with SEND flourish at this school”, the report says.
It adds:
The commitment to teaching every child to read starts in early years. Staff are experts in supporting all children to become fluent, confident readers.
The teaching of mathematics is effective. Staff are skilled at supporting pupils to access a range of practical resources to support learning, when needed. Lesson starters enable pupils to revisit and consolidate learning. Other curriculum areas, such as history, are exciting and engage pupils’ curiosity.
Ofsted also said the school places a “huge emphasis” on mental health and wellbeing.
Staff are trained to be mental health leaders, and pupils are made mental health ambassadors.
“The school is working towards being recognised as a ‘school of sanctuary’ for their commitment to creating a culture of kindness and compassion”, the report says.
Ofsted also praised the opportunities available to pupils, including a visit to a local mandir, which allow them to understand British values and the significance of learning about other cultures.
Staff feel “overwhelmingly happy” at the school and governors were praised for their knowledge of the school, and their clear understanding of their responsibilities.
Areas of improvement
Despite the glowing report, it does include one area of improvement.
Inspectors said the school has not ensured that checks on what pupils need to know are embedded in all curriculum areas. They add:
This means that in some foundation subjects, staff do not systematically check if pupils know what they should, or if pupils have gaps in their learning. The school should ensure that assessment processes clearly identify pupils’ gaps in learning to inform future teaching.
Transforming children’s lives is a ‘huge honour’
The school’s executive headteacher, Victoria Kirkman, said:
I am really pleased with the changes to this federation since April 2022. To transform children’s lives is a huge honour and I remain wholly committed to the success and sustainability of small, rural primary schools.
Federation schools are settings where all children thrive and special thanks must go to the children, staff and families who work tirelessly in their unwavering commitment to ensuring all succeed.
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