Stanbury Village School, located in Keighley, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on 18 and 19 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils express pride in belonging to an inclusive environment that feels like a family. This supportive atmosphere contributes to pupils feeling happy and safe. Children in the early years adapt quickly to school life, and older pupils actively assist younger ones, demonstrating calmness and patience.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are evident, fostering a caring and supportive environment. Pupils are aware of trusted adults available to help with any concerns, and instances of bullying are reported as extremely rare. The school promotes considerate behavior in lessons and throughout the premises, with pupils enjoying social interactions during lunchtime.
Leadership opportunities are encouraged, with pupils participating in roles such as school council members and mental health champions. This involvement instills a sense of responsibility and importance in their contributions to the school community. The curriculum is ambitious and begins in the early years, with pupils valuing their learning experiences. The school offers a variety of trips and activities that enhance learning and foster interests, including local walks and visits to places of worship.
While most subjects are well-planned, ensuring clarity in essential knowledge and skills, some subjects require refinement in their sequencing. This lack of clarity can hinder pupils from learning key concepts in sufficient detail. The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing appropriate support through well-trained staff. However, in a few subjects with newly introduced learning plans, there is variability in how pupil understanding is assessed, leading to some pupils not achieving their full potential.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a consistent phonics program implemented from the start of Reception. Most pupils become confident and fluent readers, with additional support provided for those needing to catch up. The school fosters a love of reading, encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of literature.
In the early years, staff create rich learning experiences, engaging children in meaningful conversations about their activities. This approach effectively develops their mathematical skills and prepares them for future educational stages. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, with pupils demonstrating politeness and respect, understanding the importance of tolerance.
Personal, social, and health education is well-structured, and pupils appreciate this learning, recognizing the significance of equality and safety. The school encourages confidence in trying new activities, offering various extracurricular options such as sports and gardening.
Engagement with families is strong, with the school providing guidance for parents on supporting their children's reading at home. Parents express positive sentiments about the school, feeling part of the school community. Staff members take pride in their work and appreciate the support they receive for their well-being. Governors are committed to maintaining high-quality support for the school, clearly understanding its strengths and areas for improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To enhance the quality of education further, the school needs to refine the sequencing of key knowledge in certain subjects and improve assessment practices to ensure all pupils secure the necessary foundational knowledge before progressing. Overall, Stanbury Village School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
