Ivy Road Primary School, located in Forest Hall, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has recently undergone an inspection that has raised significant concerns regarding its overall effectiveness. The inspection, conducted on 27 and 28 February 2024, resulted in an overall rating of inadequate, a stark contrast to its previous grade of good. The quality of education provided at the school is deemed inadequate, with leaders failing to implement necessary improvements in both behavior management and curriculum development in a timely manner.
Pupils at Ivy Road Primary School are reported to have gaps in their learning that are not being addressed effectively. While some improvements in behavior have been noted, they are not consistent across the student body, leading to disruptions in learning. Many pupils exhibit positive attitudes and understand the school’s values, but the presence of poor behavior from some students detracts from the overall learning environment. The school has made efforts to engage pupils in various clubs and activities, and some students hold leadership roles, yet these positive aspects are overshadowed by the inadequacies in educational delivery.
The curriculum has seen some positive changes, particularly in subjects like geography, where key knowledge has been better defined. However, the implementation of these changes has been slow, and teaching in several subjects does not adequately address significant misconceptions among pupils. The lack of urgency in addressing these gaps means that many students are not making the progress expected of them. The phonics program has been embedded, and while there has been some improvement in phonics teaching, the support provided to pupils with gaps in their phonics knowledge is not sufficiently targeted, resulting in many not becoming proficient readers.
Behavioral issues persist, particularly among older pupils, leading to disruptions that affect the learning of others. This has created an environment where some pupils do not feel safe, and staff morale is reportedly low due to the challenges in managing behavior. Although the school has sought external support to address these issues, the effectiveness of these measures remains unclear. Attendance rates have improved for some pupils, but overall attendance is still too low, contributing to further learning gaps.
The school’s approach to personal development is also lacking, particularly in fostering an understanding of different cultures and religions. While some initiatives have been implemented, incidents of inappropriate behavior and language among pupils indicate that further work is needed in this area. The leadership team has not demonstrated the capacity to secure necessary improvements, relying heavily on external support to address the significant weaknesses identified.
In the early years provision, children are eager to learn, but the curriculum does not adequately meet their needs, resulting in many not being prepared for the next stage of their education. The school must ensure that the early years curriculum is well-planned and effectively implemented to support children's development.
Overall, the inspection highlights a critical need for Ivy Road Primary School to address its shortcomings in educational quality, behavior management, and curriculum development. The leadership must take decisive action to improve the educational experience for all pupils, ensuring that they receive the support and guidance necessary to thrive academically and personally. The school is at a pivotal point where immediate and effective changes are essential to secure a better future for its students.
