Seaburn Dene Primary School in Sunderland has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on October 3 and 4, 2023. The school promotes a positive ethos encouraging pupils to dream big, show determination, and be respectful and kind. This philosophy is reflected in the harmonious interactions among pupils, with older students often engaging with younger ones in reading and play. Disputes are infrequent, and when concerns are raised, staff respond promptly and fairly, fostering a supportive environment.
Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences and appreciate the support they receive when encountering new concepts. The school recognizes and rewards positive behavior through weekly certificates that highlight the value of the week, such as respect and kindness. Initiatives led by the school council, including fundraising and improvements to playground facilities, further enhance the school community. The school also promotes sustainable travel, encouraging pupils to consider alternative ways to reach school, and maintains a tidy environment through initiatives like the golden broom award for cleanliness.
The curriculum is well-developed, focusing on the needs of pupils. Learning is structured through short units, allowing for clear identification of essential knowledge that pupils must acquire. This approach enables effective monitoring of pupils' understanding and progress. While most subjects are well-sequenced, some areas, particularly music and computing, require better structuring to ensure pupils achieve their full potential. Additionally, the key knowledge expected at the end of Reception is not clearly defined, which may hinder the transition to the wider curriculum in Year 1.
Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well due to early identification of their needs and tailored support. The curriculum is accessible to all, with various strategies employed to assist learning across subjects. Daily phonics lessons are effectively delivered, helping pupils become confident readers. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with well-maintained book areas and a library that invites engagement.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes towards learning. Younger children in Nursery and Reception show maturity and independence in their tasks, while older pupils follow instructions promptly. Supervision during outdoor play is effective, resulting in minimal disputes. The school offers a range of enriching experiences through its Seaburn Dene Eighty program, which encourages pupils to participate in various activities each year, fostering aspirations and career awareness through community links.
Governance is strong, with governors actively engaging with the school and asking challenging questions to ensure effective leadership. The school enjoys a supportive relationship with parents and the local community, participating in charitable initiatives that extend beyond the school environment. Staff express pride in their roles and feel respected within the school community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to enhance its curriculum structure in certain foundation subjects to ensure all areas are equally well-defined and mapped out. This improvement will help address the limitations in progress observed in some subjects, ensuring that all pupils receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for future learning. Overall, Seaburn Dene Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
