Thorpe Primary School, located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on March 8 and 9, 2023, and the school has maintained a good rating since its previous inspection in June 2017. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while early years provision was noted as requiring improvement.
The school is characterized by a friendly and inclusive atmosphere where staff are well-acquainted with pupils and their families. Pupils express pride in their school and appreciate the support they receive. The school promotes a culture of mutual respect, with various initiatives in place to support pupil well-being, including worry boxes and pupil counselors. Leaders demonstrate ambition for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they receive appropriate support to make good progress.
Pupils at Thorpe Primary School show a strong enthusiasm for sports and physical education, with opportunities to engage in a variety of activities, including competitions that foster a sense of achievement. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured for pupils in Years 1 to 6, allowing them to reach significant educational milestones. However, the early years curriculum lacks the same level of clarity and structure, which affects the readiness of children for Year 1.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a clear phonics teaching structure in place. Daily phonics sessions are conducted, and effective support is provided for children at risk of falling behind. Teachers select engaging books to foster a love of reading among pupils, who actively participate in storytime and enjoy using the school library.
While most teachers possess a good understanding of their subjects, there is inconsistency in how they assess pupils' understanding. Leaders are encouraged to maintain a focus on the delivery of the curriculum and the retention of key knowledge by pupils. The school has high expectations for behavior, resulting in a polite and courteous environment where bullying is not tolerated. Pupils demonstrate calm and orderly behavior, and routines are consistently applied.
Attendance and punctuality are prioritized, with effective measures in place to address any issues. The school provides a supportive environment for pupils' emotional health and well-being, with staff who are dedicated to meeting the needs of all children. Various strategies, including mental health trackers, are utilized to monitor and support pupil well-being.
Pupils are encouraged to engage with diverse views and beliefs through structured discussions, promoting respect and understanding. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of risk and respond appropriately. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to support pupils and families, ensuring a safe learning environment.
To improve, the school needs to sharpen its focus on how well pupils are learning key subject content and enhance the early years curriculum to ensure children acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for future success. Overall, Thorpe Primary School is a supportive and ambitious educational institution that fosters a positive learning environment for its pupils.
