Ravenswood Primary School, located in Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 29 and 30, 2023. The school is known for its inclusive and welcoming environment, fostering a strong sense of belonging among students and staff. Parents appreciate the caring relationships established with the staff, contributing to a positive atmosphere within the school community. Pupils express pride in their school, highlighting the respectful and trusting relationships they share with adults. They feel safe and happy, attributing this to the genuine care shown by the staff.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, which is evident in their conduct during lessons and throughout the school day. Pupils are aware of various forms of bullying and report that such incidents are rare. Ravenswood Primary School is committed to supporting all pupils in their academic and social development, with personal development being a central focus of the curriculum. The school offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, educational outings, and extracurricular activities that enrich the learning experience, making it engaging and relevant for students.
Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, such as becoming young interpreters, which encourages them to contribute positively to the school and local community. The school is dedicated to providing a relevant curriculum that inspires all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, detailing essential content for pupils in key stages one and two.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to the school environment, displaying sociability and happiness. However, the intended learning outcomes for these children are not clearly defined, which can hinder their preparation for key stage one. The school recognizes the need to identify the critical knowledge that children should acquire during their early years to build a solid foundation for future learning.
Recently, a new mathematics curriculum was introduced, which is well-structured and sequenced. Staff have received some training to implement these plans, but further training is necessary to ensure consistency in teaching mathematics across the school. Reading is prioritized, with a clear phonics teaching structure in place. Children receive daily phonics lessons, and staff are quick to identify those struggling with reading, providing the necessary support to help them catch up.
The school effectively supports pupils who speak English as an additional language or have speech and language difficulties, emphasizing vocabulary development and providing opportunities for peer interaction. The support for pupils with special educational needs is of high quality, with effective plans in place to adapt learning to meet their needs.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and a strong eagerness to learn, responding positively to the high expectations set by their teachers. The school’s provision for personal development is thoughtfully planned, celebrating the diverse cultural backgrounds of its students and promoting respect for all individuals. Attendance is managed effectively, with staff taking prompt action to improve attendance rates.
Governors are highly committed to ensuring the best education for all pupils, and the leadership team prioritizes staff well-being, fostering a culture of teamwork. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Overall, Ravenswood Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on personal development, inclusivity, and community engagement.
