Canning Street Primary School, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and secure environment that values diversity and respect among its pupils. The inclusive atmosphere fosters quick friendships among students, which is particularly important given the frequent arrival and departure of new pupils. The school operates under a single rule that emphasizes the importance of not causing harm or distress to others, and this principle is upheld by the students.
The educational journey at Canning Street begins with the provision for two-year-olds, where children learn essential social skills and language development. This foundation continues into Nursery and Reception, where pupils engage in exploration and acquire fundamental skills in reading, writing, and numeracy. The school sets high expectations for its students, encouraging them to strive for success and maintain good behavior. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the consistently positive behavior observed among pupils, who demonstrate resilience even when faced with challenging tasks.
Canning Street Primary School offers a well-structured curriculum that effectively addresses the needs of its diverse student body, many of whom speak English as an additional language. Staff members are adept at identifying the individual learning requirements of new pupils, ensuring that the curriculum builds their confidence and language skills. In most subjects, teaching is delivered effectively, with clear explanations and a progressive build-up of knowledge. However, some subjects in the wider curriculum require better structuring to enhance student progress.
The school has successfully implemented a new phonics teaching approach, which is delivered by well-trained staff. This method focuses on quality texts and provides strong support for pupils learning English as an additional language. The positive impact of these improvements is evident in the quality of students' work across various subjects. Additionally, the school employs effective assessment strategies to monitor pupil learning and provide necessary support for those with additional needs.
Pupils take pride in their behavior and attendance, actively participating in initiatives that reward good attendance and behavior. The school promotes a culture of respect and attentiveness, with students demonstrating eagerness to engage in lessons and activities. The early years' environment is characterized by calmness and curiosity, with children displaying a willingness to explore new activities independently or collaboratively.
Canning Street Primary School also prioritizes the wider development of its pupils, offering a rich array of extracurricular activities and educational visits. These experiences include trips to the theatre, beach, and local heritage sites, as well as participation in community events. The school celebrates cultural diversity through various events that highlight traditional practices and foods.
Staff morale at the school is notably high, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and support among colleagues. The school fosters an inclusive environment for staff and parents, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment for all pupils.
While the school has many strengths, it is recommended that the curriculum in certain foundation subjects be better structured to ensure that all pupils can achieve equally well across all areas of learning. Overall, Canning Street Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its students, maintaining its status as a good school.
