Throckley Primary School, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, underwent an inspection from November 7 to November 8, 2013, and received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, a significant improvement from its previous satisfactory rating. The school provides an exceptional education for all pupils, focusing on both academic achievement and personal development. Pupils demonstrate remarkable progress from very low starting points, achieving above-average standards in reading and writing by the end of Year 6. While mathematics standards are above average, they are not as high as those in English.
The quality of teaching at Throckley Primary is consistently outstanding, with teachers planning engaging lessons that motivate pupils to learn and progress rapidly. However, there is a noted need for pupils to have more opportunities to apply their mathematical skills in real-life contexts and to consolidate their basic skills before advancing to new concepts. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior both in school and during external visits, showing pride in their school and treating visitors with politeness and respect. They report that bullying is rare and feel safe within the school environment, a sentiment echoed by parents and staff.
The leadership team, led by the headteacher, is highly effective and has set high standards for the school. They respond swiftly to any weaknesses, ensuring that pupil achievement, teaching quality, and behavior remain outstanding. The leadership is characterized by ambition and a commitment to continuous improvement in teaching and learning. The school has a robust system for monitoring pupil progress, allowing for timely interventions for those at risk of falling behind.
During the inspection, 13 lessons were observed, and inspectors engaged with various stakeholders, including pupils, governors, and staff. The school is smaller than average, with a significant proportion of pupils receiving additional support through the pupil premium, which is aimed at those eligible for free school meals or from service families. The school meets government floor standards, indicating that it provides a satisfactory level of education.
To further enhance its performance, the school aims to improve mathematics attainment by ensuring that all pupils solidify their foundational skills and have consistent opportunities to apply their mathematical knowledge across different subjects. The achievement of pupils is outstanding, with children in the Early Years Foundation Stage making excellent progress due to the supportive environment and high-quality teaching. The school’s reading program effectively supports younger pupils, enabling them to develop strong reading skills early on.
Pupils write creatively and adapt their writing for various audiences, showcasing their developing skills. The school’s data indicates that pupils make excellent progress, with Year 6 students achieving above-average results in national tests. The school is dedicated to equality of opportunity, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and the most able, achieve well.
The quality of teaching is a key strength, with teachers maintaining high expectations and providing stimulating lessons that foster a love of learning. The marking of pupils' work is thorough, and feedback is constructive, encouraging pupils to improve. The school promotes a culture of reading, with pupils expressing enjoyment in reading both at school and home.
Overall, Throckley Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a commitment to high standards, effective leadership, and a supportive learning environment that fosters the growth and development of all its pupils.
