The Ellis Church of England Primary School in Hemingfield, Barnsley, received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 15 and 16, 2022, and the school has maintained this grade since its previous inspection in July 2017. The school serves a mixed-gender population of 235 pupils aged between three and eleven years. The leadership team, which includes the acting headteacher and deputy headteacher, has made significant improvements to the curriculum, ensuring that pupils benefit from a high-quality education.
Pupils at the school are described as happy and well cared for, with staff encouraging them to strive for their best. The school fosters a respectful and friendly community, reflecting its strong Christian ethos. Positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a good standard of behavior, with pupils being respectful and polite. Instances of bullying are rare and effectively addressed by staff. The personal, social, health, and economic education program is well-structured, equipping pupils with the knowledge to discuss important issues in an age-appropriate manner.
The curriculum is well-sequenced and comprehensive, with leaders prioritizing its development. Teachers are supported by curriculum leaders who share their expertise, enabling staff to teach with confidence. In mathematics, for example, essential knowledge is reinforced through repetition, helping pupils to learn effectively. However, the implementation of the curriculum varies across subjects, leading to less effective learning in some areas. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure consistency across all subjects.
Reading is a key focus at the school, with a consistent phonics approach helping children to learn new sounds effectively. Most pupils in key stage one read fluently and with understanding, thanks to regular checks on their progress. The school has invested in high-quality texts, fostering a love of reading among pupils. The early years provision is also strong, with children developing their language skills and physical abilities through a variety of activities.
The school promotes positive behavior through its golden rules and reward system, although some pupils do not fully understand how the rewards work. Attendance is well managed, with leaders engaging with parents to address issues of persistent absence. The personal development of pupils is a strength, with numerous opportunities for sports and outdoor activities. Leaders are committed to providing enriching experiences for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. The designated safeguarding lead ensures that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support, and staff are well-informed about their responsibilities in keeping pupils safe. The school collaborates with other agencies to minimize risks to pupils.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum is implemented consistently across all subjects to enhance pupil learning. Additionally, the new behavior management approach requires further establishment to ensure clarity and consistency in its application. Overall, the Ellis Church of England Primary School is a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally.
