Norland CE School, located in Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on March 2 and 3, 2022. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community where every pupil is valued. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, and leaders are attentive to the needs of vulnerable pupils, ensuring they receive necessary support. The school fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is respected, and prejudice is not tolerated. Pupils express a sense of safety and well-being, with adults actively helping them resolve conflicts and addressing bullying promptly.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, cooking, and film clubs, which pupils enjoy. They also appreciate opportunities for educational trips, such as the Year 6 residential. The democratic process is encouraged through the election of house captains and school council members, and pupils feel their voices are heard by staff.
The curriculum at Norland CE School is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in subjects like science, history, and English. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to break down learning into manageable steps, enabling pupils to build knowledge over time. This approach allows pupils to recall what they have learned and apply their knowledge to new topics. Early years education is broad, focusing on core skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, while also introducing subjects like history and science. However, there are areas for improvement in the early years curriculum, particularly regarding the precise knowledge children need to learn and the order in which it is taught.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and regularly assess pupils' understanding, addressing any misconceptions swiftly. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive good support, although there are instances where the targets set in their support plans could be more precise. This sometimes results in these pupils not receiving the specific help they need to foster independence.
The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with effective phonics instruction that builds on pupils' existing knowledge. Regular opportunities for reading practice ensure that pupils who fall behind can catch up quickly. Leaders also focus on developing pupils' understanding of life in modern Britain, encouraging discussions on relevant topics that promote respect and maturity.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior, with teachers effectively managing any low-level disruptions to maintain a conducive learning environment. The school encourages active citizenship, with pupils participating in community events, such as fundraising for local charities.
Leadership at Norland CE School is strong, with leaders reflecting on the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Governors are actively involved, providing support and challenge to school leaders. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate collaboration with colleagues across the federation of schools. While some parents have raised concerns about staff turnover, leaders have taken steps to mitigate any negative impact on pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding responsibilities and respond promptly to any concerns. Pupils are educated about local risks and encouraged to discuss issues that may worry them, contributing to their understanding of safety.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders must ensure that the needs of pupils with SEND are accurately assessed and that they receive the appropriate support. Additionally, the early years curriculum requires further refinement to ensure that children learn essential knowledge in a sequential manner that aids retention.
