Greystones Primary School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 5 and 6, 2022. The school is characterized by a strong sense of pride among both staff and pupils, who are greeted warmly each morning, fostering a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing for a seamless transition from early years to Year 6, with lessons designed to engage pupils and promote long-term retention of knowledge.
Staff at Greystones Primary School maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that every pupil is encouraged to explore their curiosity and engage actively in their education. The school promotes positive behavior, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. Instances of bullying are rare, and students feel confident that any issues would be promptly addressed by staff.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs, trips, and leadership opportunities, which help pupils develop their interests beyond the classroom. The school council plays an active role in representing their peers and initiating projects that benefit the school community, such as promoting considerate parking outside the school.
The curriculum is designed to support learning across various subjects, with a particular emphasis on reading and mathematics. Pupils engage in reading activities that encourage discussion and critical thinking about the texts they encounter. A well-planned phonics program aids early readers, while guided reading sessions further enhance their skills. The school also fosters a love for poetry through competitions that allow pupils to express their creativity.
Assessment practices are effectively utilized in lessons, particularly in mathematics, where both formative and summative assessments help identify and address gaps in understanding. However, there is room for improvement in the use of summative assessments in science, where staff may not have a clear picture of pupil progress over time.
In the early years, children thrive in a rich learning environment that stimulates their curiosity and encourages collaborative play. Staff are attentive to the individual needs of children, providing support where necessary to ensure all pupils can engage fully in their learning experiences. The school’s ethos of safety, kindness, respect, and perseverance is reinforced through various activities.
The additional resourced provision for deaf and hearing-impaired children is integrated effectively, allowing these pupils to learn alongside their peers. This inclusive approach fosters understanding and support among all students, enhancing the overall school community.
The leadership team is dedicated to the personal development of pupils, promoting an understanding of equality and diversity through lessons about different cultures and beliefs. Governors play an active role in supporting the school, regularly visiting and ensuring that safeguarding procedures are robust and effective.
Overall, Greystones Primary School is committed to providing a high-quality education that meets the needs of all its pupils. While the school excels in many areas, there is a need to enhance the effectiveness of summative assessments across all subjects to better inform teaching and learning. The school’s strong culture of safeguarding and its focus on personal development further contribute to its positive reputation within the community.