Hawksworth Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils. The school is characterized by strong relationships among staff and students, fostering a sense of community where everyone feels valued. This positive atmosphere contributes to a calm and focused learning environment, where kindness and respect are paramount. Instances of bullying are rare, reflecting the school's commitment to a safe and inclusive culture.
The curriculum at Hawksworth is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of its students, with a clear focus on what pupils should learn at each stage of their education. Leaders have tailored the curriculum to suit the mixed-age classes, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support. This personalized approach allows students to build on their knowledge progressively, starting from a strong foundation in the early years and continuing through to Year 6.
Personal development is a key priority for the school, rooted in its Christian ethos. Pupils engage in collective worship and participate in the personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum, which equips them with essential life skills. The school encourages students to take an active role in their community, participating in fundraising for local charities, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and connection to the world around them.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require attention. The curriculum is ambitious, and leaders have identified the critical knowledge that pupils need to acquire in each subject. However, some pupils have experienced challenges in mathematics, particularly in arithmetic, which has affected their performance in national assessments at the end of key stage two. The school is aware of these gaps and has already begun to adapt its mathematics curriculum to address these issues, resulting in improved confidence and fluency among students.
The early years environment is well-structured to support children's learning and development. Both indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to stimulate curiosity and independent exploration. Strong relationships between staff and children promote positive attitudes towards learning, ensuring that children are well-prepared for their future educational journey.
Reading is a significant focus at Hawksworth, with early reading instruction beginning as soon as children enter the school. A consistent phonics teaching approach has been established, and additional support is provided for those who need it, ensuring that all pupils become confident and fluent readers.
The school has recently refined its behavior expectations, which are clearly understood by both staff and pupils. This clarity helps foster respectful and positive relationships throughout the school community. Attendance is high, as pupils enjoy their time at school and are eager to engage in learning.
Leaders prioritize the well-being of pupils, offering a range of activities that support mental health and personal development. Opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council, help them feel proud of their contributions to the school community.
Governors are dedicated to the school’s mission, working alongside leaders to ensure that pupils receive a high-quality education. Staff express pride in their school and feel well-supported by leadership, which considers their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hawksworth are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, Hawksworth Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on personal development and community engagement, while also addressing areas for improvement in mathematics to enhance pupil outcomes.
