Biddick Primary School, located in Kirkham, Biddick Village, Washington, Tyne and Wear, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on November 12 and 13, 2019. The school was rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This reflects a consistent standard of excellence since the previous inspection in June 2015, where it also received a good rating.
Pupils at Biddick Primary School express enjoyment in attending due to the engaging curriculum that fosters curiosity and a desire to learn. The school environment is described as warm and friendly, where every individual is valued. Parents and carers have voiced strong support for the school, with many noting that their children are thriving in this nurturing setting. Pupils feel safe and demonstrate respect for one another and their teachers, aligning with the school’s motto of striving to be the best one can be. The school has a clear stance against bullying, and pupils report that any issues are promptly addressed by staff.
The school excels in early reading and mathematics, with pupils receiving effective support to develop their skills. Teachers are adept at identifying those who may struggle and provide additional assistance to ensure all pupils can succeed. The strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a culture of independence and perseverance among students. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to connect various subjects, enhancing the learning experience and promoting the development of knowledge and skills.
In addition to strong performance in reading and mathematics, science education at Biddick Primary is engaging, with pupils enjoying hands-on experiments and learning to write like scientists. The school has implemented a clear strategy for improving science education over time, ensuring that lessons are structured to help pupils retain knowledge. However, there is recognition that the most able pupils may not always reach their full potential in subjects beyond English and mathematics, prompting leaders to focus on enhancing the curriculum in foundation subjects.
The school places a strong emphasis on equality, providing necessary support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are committed to maintaining high expectations for all pupils, fostering a polite and well-behaved school community. The curriculum includes opportunities for pupils to learn about health, relationships, and online safety, preparing them for future challenges.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to school life, with parents encouraged to participate in their children’s education from the outset. The school offers various activities, including a breakfast club and after-school programs, to support families and enhance the educational experience.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure the safety and welfare of all pupils. Leaders maintain detailed records and collaborate with external agencies to address any concerns promptly. The school community is educated on safety both within the school and in the wider community.
To further improve, the school aims to provide additional training for teachers in foundation subjects to enhance their subject knowledge and ensure that all pupils achieve well across the curriculum. Leaders are committed to addressing the needs of the most able pupils to ensure they are appropriately challenged in their learning.
Overall, Biddick Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment, with a clear focus on continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
