Adwick Primary School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, was inspected on November 13 and 14, 2019. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent evaluations across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained this level of effectiveness since its previous inspection in July 2015.
Pupils at Adwick Primary School express enjoyment in attending school and show enthusiasm for their lessons. The school offers a broad curriculum that allows students to engage in a variety of subjects. Teachers are dedicated to planning activities that reinforce learning and help pupils retain information. The school also boasts a range of extra-curricular clubs that are well attended, and pupils frequently participate in school trips that enhance their classroom learning.
The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, with good behavior observed among pupils. Clear routines are established, and students play well together during recess. Pupils report feeling safe and are aware that while bullying can occur, it is infrequent. They trust that adults are available to support them when needed, although the records kept by leaders regarding bullying incidents could benefit from more detailed documentation.
In the classroom, pupils demonstrate attentive listening and focus on their tasks. They actively participate in discussions and support one another, showcasing resilience when faced with challenges. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with leaders prioritizing the development of reading skills among pupils. Opportunities for students to meet authors and foster a love for reading are provided, and high-quality training is offered to teachers to enhance their instructional skills. The early reading leader plays a crucial role in supporting teachers daily, ensuring that pupils are progressing through the reading curriculum effectively.
Leaders at Adwick Primary School are reflective and have made adjustments to the teaching of reading comprehension. Daily activities are designed to develop pupils' comprehension skills and vocabulary. Teachers encourage students to draw on their own experiences when answering questions, promoting engagement and critical thinking. However, while the sequencing of subjects is clear, some teachers exhibit less confidence in planning tasks that develop research skills in history and science.
The early years provision is effective, with strong relationships between adults and children. The curriculum for early reading and mathematics is well-structured, and the learning environment is organized to promote independence. Adults are attentive to the developmental needs of children, planning engaging activities that foster knowledge and behaviors that prepare them for Year 1.
Leaders are committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing tailored activities that ensure these students achieve well. The pastoral team offers valuable support to vulnerable pupils, teaching them about safety and healthy relationships. Whole-school initiatives, such as anti-bullying week, reinforce learning and promote well-being. However, there is a noted need for greater confidence among pupils when discussing religion and different cultures, as opportunities to explore these topics are currently limited.
Governance at the school is strong, with leaders demonstrating a clear understanding of areas for improvement. Staff collaboration is encouraged, fostering a supportive environment. While governors receive detailed information about the school, there is a need for more thorough checks on the impact of leadership actions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Adwick Primary School are effective, with all staff being suitable to work with children. Regular training ensures that staff are aware of their responsibilities regarding child safety. Leaders maintain detailed records, although there are instances where organization could be improved to better identify ongoing patterns.
To enhance the quality of education further, leaders should focus on providing additional training and support for teachers in history and science. Additionally, expanding pupils' knowledge of different faiths and cultures is essential for their personal development. Governors should implement better measures to assess the impact of leadership actions, and the organization of safeguarding records should be reviewed to ensure clarity and accessibility. Overall, Adwick Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all pupils.
