Hadrian Primary School, located in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, underwent an inspection on November 2 and 3, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. This inspection marked a significant moment for the school, as it was the first routine inspection since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pupils at Hadrian Primary School express a high level of enjoyment in attending school, highlighting the supportive and caring nature of the teachers. The staff's commitment to the well-being of students fosters a safe environment where pupils feel valued. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with students taking pride in their roles, such as prefects, and participating in various extracurricular activities, including sports and music festivals. The school’s leaders are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned to meet diverse needs.
Behaviour among pupils is exceptional, with instances of bullying being rare. When issues do arise, staff address them effectively. The school emphasizes the importance of positive relationships, starting from the early years, and pupils are encouraged to support one another. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident, with pupils actively engaging in their education and contributing to the school community.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in core subjects like English and mathematics. Early years pupils learn phonics effectively, which aids their reading development. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in foundation subjects such as geography and music, where the curriculum is less developed. Some pupils struggle to connect their knowledge across different subjects, indicating a need for clearer guidance on essential subject-specific knowledge.
Assessment practices in most subjects are effective, allowing teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and readiness to progress. However, the assessment systems in foundation subjects do not always provide a clear picture of pupils' grasp of specific content. This can lead to misconceptions going unaddressed, hindering overall achievement.
The school has made strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that their specific needs are identified and met. The staff is well-equipped to address mental health concerns, contributing to a supportive environment where all pupils can thrive.
Despite the strengths, the school faces challenges in ensuring that all pupils, particularly those at the early stages of reading, receive the necessary support to catch up. Some pupils have gaps in their phonics knowledge, which can impede their reading fluency. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that all staff are adequately trained to support reading development effectively.
The governing body is actively involved in the school’s priorities, working closely with local authorities to ensure accountability. Staff members feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive school culture. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with clear systems in place to protect pupils and promote their well-being.
In summary, Hadrian Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a positive learning environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum development and support for early readers, the school is well-positioned to continue its progress and enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
