Bawtry Mayflower Primary School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 25-26, 2020. The school fosters positive relationships between adults and pupils, creating an environment where students feel confident and articulate. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and are eager to participate in class discussions, demonstrating their engagement with the learning process. The staff encourages independence from an early age, which contributes to the pupils' ability to listen attentively and work diligently in lessons.
The school places a strong emphasis on safety, teaching pupils how to stay safe, particularly in the context of internet use and healthy relationships. Behaviour within the school is commendable, with pupils adhering to the school rule of being kind, respectful, and hardworking. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils feel assured that adults will assist them if they encounter any issues.
Bawtry Mayflower Primary School offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including well-attended clubs such as board games and reading clubs. Pupils are also encouraged to engage with current events, providing them with opportunities to discuss topical issues and develop their understanding of the world around them.
The early years environment is welcoming and well-organized, allowing children to settle into school life quickly. Staff members are well-trained in teaching reading, and children begin their reading journey as soon as they enter the school. The curriculum is designed to ensure that reading materials align with the sounds children are learning, which helps to build their confidence in reading.
Despite the positive aspects, the school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in reading and mathematics for pupils in key stage two, who made slower progress in the previous year. School leaders have implemented new strategies based on research to address these challenges, and subject leaders are providing support to staff to enhance teaching practices. The curriculum plans for reading and mathematics are structured to allow pupils to build on their existing knowledge and skills.
In geography, the curriculum has been refined to clarify the essential knowledge pupils must acquire each year. Some lessons have begun to deepen pupils' understanding of geographical concepts, such as the impact of the Industrial Revolution on land use in Sheffield. However, there is a need for better use of assessment in geography to ensure that pupils can build on their prior learning effectively.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive good support, with detailed plans in place to cater to their individual needs. The SEND leader collaborates with teachers to ensure that activities are appropriately tailored, and regular training is provided to staff. Leaders also work closely with external specialists to enhance the support available to these pupils.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors providing effective support to school leaders. The leadership team is reflective and aware of the necessary steps for improvement, utilizing research to inform their practices. Staff development is prioritized, with many teachers beginning to cultivate their leadership skills within a supportive team culture. Leaders are mindful of teachers' workloads, allowing them to focus on creating engaging lessons.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with thorough checks in place to ensure that all adults working with children are suitable. Staff receive regular training on safeguarding protocols, and there is a clear process for reporting concerns. Leaders are proactive in addressing any safety issues that arise, and the curriculum includes lessons on online safety to prepare pupils for future educational transitions.
Moving forward, the school aims to continue enhancing its reading and mathematics programs, ensuring that all pupils make sufficient progress. Additionally, there is a focus on improving geography lessons by utilizing assessments to inform future planning. Overall, Bawtry Mayflower Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
