Eastcroft Park School is recognized as a good school, providing a welcoming and caring environment for its pupils. The school fosters a sense of community, with students expressing that it feels like a family. Staff embody the school motto of striving for excellence, encouraging pupils to reach their full potential. Parents appreciate the support and care provided by the staff, noting their readiness to assist with any inquiries. Pupils feel safe and well looked after, with a clear understanding of bullying and confidence that staff would address any issues promptly.
From the early years, high expectations are set, allowing children to adapt quickly to school life and understand the rules and routines. The school enhances learning through various opportunities, including visits to local art galleries and participation in clubs and activities. Older pupils take on leadership roles, helping younger students with games, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community.
The curriculum is ambitious, with clear plans in place for key stages one and two, ensuring that pupils build on their existing knowledge in a logical manner. For instance, in art, students learn to draw accurately before adding shading to their work. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the early years, where curriculum plans do not always clearly define the essential knowledge children should acquire. This can lead to gaps in learning.
Teachers frequently assess pupils' understanding through quizzes, using the results to adapt their teaching strategies. They possess the necessary subject knowledge to deliver engaging lessons, which helps pupils retain information over time. The phonics curriculum introduced in 2019 is well-structured, allowing pupils to learn to read at their own pace with books that match their phonetic knowledge. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the training of some staff in phonics, which has affected the delivery of this curriculum.
The reading curriculum exposes pupils to various genres and authors, with regular assessments to identify those needing additional support. Staff work collaboratively to ensure that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, enabling them to follow the same curriculum as their peers.
Pupils are encouraged to develop as responsible citizens, taking on roles such as class monitors and learning to respect diversity. They are educated about personal development, including healthy relationships, preparing them for life beyond school. Behavior is generally good, with pupils responding well to instructions and resolving conflicts effectively with staff support.
Governors and school leaders are well-informed about the school's operations, providing effective support and challenge. Staff report that leaders do not impose unnecessary burdens, and the investment in resources has improved their work-life balance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns promptly. Leaders ensure that vulnerable pupils attend school regularly and provide support to families when needed.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, it is essential that all staff receive adequate training in phonics to ensure consistent delivery of the curriculum. Additionally, leaders must clarify the knowledge required in early years curriculum plans to ensure a solid foundation for future learning. Overall, Eastcroft Park School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
