Park Primary School in Doncaster has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on January 23 and 24, 2024. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel valued and listened to, establishing strong relationships between students and staff. Adults at the school are dedicated to nurturing each pupil's understanding and development, ensuring that students feel safe and supported. Pupils express confidence in approaching adults with any concerns, knowing that their issues will be addressed.
The school maintains high expectations for student achievement, enriching the curriculum by inviting expert visitors, including professional and Olympic athletes, to engage with pupils. These experiences are cherished by students, who find them to be both interesting and memorable. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with minimal disruption during learning time. Students collaborate effectively, demonstrating attentiveness and enjoyment in their learning. This positive atmosphere extends to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve well.
Pupils actively participate in school life through various leadership roles, such as house captains and librarians. These opportunities help them understand their potential to positively impact others. The teaching of reading is a notable strength of the school, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Staff regularly assess pupils to ensure they grasp the sounds being taught, allowing them to read books that match their learning level. This approach fosters fluency and confidence in reading, with additional support provided to those at risk of falling behind.
Leaders have made significant efforts to enhance the curriculum, providing training for staff to ensure confident and accurate delivery. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and present information clearly, identifying gaps in pupils' understanding and addressing them effectively. However, in some subjects, the school has not clearly defined the specific knowledge that pupils should acquire, which can hinder the depth of understanding that students develop.
Staff are attuned to the individual needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs. They collaborate with families and external agencies to create personalized targets that inform how activities are adjusted to support learning. The early years program provides a solid foundation for children, with adults designing activities that reinforce learning from taught sessions.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons and throughout the school, maximizing their learning opportunities. They are educated on safety, including internet safety, and demonstrate an understanding of how to manage potential risks. The curriculum includes learning about different religions, enhanced by visits from representatives of various places of worship, promoting respect for diversity in modern Britain.
Leaders have ambitious goals for pupil learning and experiences, implementing clear and purposeful improvements to the curriculum. Staff express satisfaction with the support and value they receive from leadership. The governing body effectively holds leaders accountable, with recent appointments strengthening its capacity.
The safeguarding arrangements at Park Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school is encouraged to review its curriculum in certain subjects to better identify the key knowledge that should be taught, ensuring that pupils build progressively on their prior knowledge. This will enhance the overall educational experience and outcomes for all students.
