Holystone Primary School, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was inspected on November 16 and 17, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a strong ethos centered around values such as respect, independence, and resilience, which are integrated into the curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to develop into caring and compassionate citizens, and they generally feel safe and supported within the school environment. The leadership team has high expectations for pupil behavior and achievement, which are met by the students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils. The school has effective support systems in place for these groups.
The quality of education at Holystone is rated as Good, with outstanding early years provision. Children in the early years benefit from a well-structured curriculum that promotes speech, language, and communication skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for the next stage of their education. Phonics teaching is particularly effective, enabling pupils to develop confidence and fluency in reading. The curriculum is carefully planned and sequenced across most subjects, allowing pupils to build knowledge logically. However, there are some foundation subjects where assessment practices need improvement to better track pupil learning and address gaps in knowledge.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons, although there are occasional issues during break times. When problems arise, pupils trust that staff will address them promptly. Parents express strong support for the school, noting that it goes above and beyond for both students and families. The school promotes high attendance rates, with persistent absence figures below national averages, and engages effectively with parents to emphasize the importance of regular attendance.
Personal development is a notable strength of Holystone Primary. Pupils understand and respond well to the school's core values, which are represented visually throughout the school. The school offers a rich array of experiences that promote community engagement, physical activity, and mental well-being. Activities are purposefully integrated into the curriculum, enhancing pupils' social skills and personal growth. The school also effectively promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural education, teaching pupils about various world faiths and fostering respect and equality.
Governance at Holystone is strong, with governors holding leaders accountable and being well-informed about the school's operations. Staff feel that their workload and well-being are considered by school leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported.
To improve, the school needs to enhance assessment practices in certain foundation subjects to ensure precise tracking of pupils' knowledge and skills acquisition. This will help identify gaps in learning more quickly and align with the school's educational intentions. Overall, Holystone Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all its pupils.