Greenfield Primary School, located in Hoyland, Barnsley, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17 and 18, 2023. The school is known for its inclusive environment and strong community ties, with positive relationships among staff, pupils, and parents. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, noting that their concerns are addressed and that their children are happy at school. The school promotes a positive behavior culture through three key rules: be ready, be respectful, and be safe. This framework contributes to a supportive atmosphere where pupils are eager to earn rewards for good behavior.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including art, forest school, and football, which are well-attended by students. During the inspection, pupils engaged in hands-on science experiments, showcasing the school's commitment to practical learning experiences. Events organized by the Well-being Warriors, such as talent shows, foster community spirit and raise funds for school projects. Leaders prioritize providing enriching experiences for all pupils, including residential trips and educational visits, which enhance the curriculum.
Greenfield Primary School has implemented a broad and ambitious curriculum that spans from early years to Year 6. A new two-year curriculum model was introduced in January, clearly outlining the knowledge and skills expected of pupils. However, some challenges remain, particularly regarding the previous curriculum's clarity and progression, which has affected some pupils' ability to connect new learning with prior knowledge. Leaders are focusing on improving pupils' oracy skills by modeling vocabulary and ensuring that essential terms are understood and used effectively in lessons.
While many subject leaders are new to their roles, they are beginning to assess the implementation of their subjects. In mathematics, the use of toolkits has been beneficial for both pupils and staff, aiding in the review of mathematical concepts. However, there is a need for improvement in the presentation of pupils' work, as the current policy is not consistently followed, leading to variability in the quality of written work.
Reading is a notable strength of the school, with staff trained in early reading instruction. Teachers effectively identify pupils needing additional support, ensuring that reading materials align with their phonetic knowledge. This approach has fostered a love for reading among older pupils, who have access to a diverse range of books. The school also supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, emphasizing early identification and tailored support.
The school grounds provide an excellent environment for learning, with opportunities for outdoor exploration. Pupils engage with their local community through activities such as singing at a nursing home, promoting respect for diverse cultures and faiths. However, there is a need for pupils to develop a more robust vocabulary to discuss different religions and cultures confidently.
Staff morale is high, with a collaborative team spirit and a clear vision for ongoing improvements. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. Leaders work closely with external agencies to support pupils and their families, ensuring that safeguarding is a priority.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that subject leaders have adequate time to evaluate the impact of the new curriculum and that teachers consistently model subject-specific vocabulary. Additionally, a unified approach to handwriting instruction is necessary to improve the quality of pupils' written work. Overall, Greenfield Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
