Hedworthfield Primary School is a welcoming and friendly institution located in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear. The recent inspection conducted on May 10 and 11, 2023, rated the school as good overall, with outstanding early years provision. The school fosters positive relationships between pupils and staff, creating an environment where high expectations for behavior are upheld. Pupils are noted for their politeness and courtesy, and instances of bullying are rare and effectively managed. The presence of Shadow, the school dog, contributes positively to the well-being of the students, providing comfort and companionship. Additionally, the school farm, which includes chickens and ducks, enhances the pupils' learning experiences and emotional development.
The curriculum at Hedworthfield is ambitious and tailored to the needs of the local community. Pupils engage in various enriching activities, including visits to local sites that enhance their understanding of subjects like history and geography. The school emphasizes the importance of careers education, allowing older pupils to interact with local business owners, thereby providing them with insights into the world of work. The early years environment is particularly vibrant, with staff actively promoting language development and encouraging exploration through nature-based activities.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The teaching of phonics is prioritized, yet some strategies used during reading sessions do not align with the school's agreed approach, which can hinder pupils' reading fluency. Furthermore, a subset of pupils does not engage in reading for pleasure, which affects their vocabulary development compared to their peers who read more widely. This discrepancy can impact their preparedness for secondary education.
The leadership and management of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are strong, with staff demonstrating high expectations for all pupils. Individual plans for SEND pupils are well-structured, ensuring access to a broad curriculum. The early years team effectively prepares children for Year 1, utilizing a detailed curriculum that promotes vocabulary development and encourages independent play.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and enjoy their time in the spacious school grounds. Attendance has shown improvement following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to various initiatives led by the school. The curriculum includes discussions on fundamental British values and equality, although some pupils' understanding of these concepts is not fully secure.
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and enrichment programs. Pupils look forward to experiences such as the Year 6 residential trip and performances at local venues. Teachers appreciate collaborative planning opportunities with colleagues from partner schools, which enhances their professional development.
The governing body is actively involved in the school, conducting monitoring visits and providing support while holding leaders accountable. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address potential concerns. Overall, while Hedworthfield Primary School demonstrates many strengths, particularly in its community engagement and early years provision, it must address the challenges in reading fluency and curriculum delivery to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
