Parkgate Primary School, located in Neston, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 20 and 21, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils exhibit considerate behavior and a strong commitment to learning. Students describe their school as a family and a caring community, highlighting the respect and love shared among teachers and pupils. Year 6 students expressed excitement about transitioning to secondary school while also feeling a sense of nostalgia for their time at Parkgate, indicating a strong emotional connection to the school.
The early years at Parkgate Primary are characterized by a readiness to learn, with children entering the school prepared for their educational journey. The school effectively builds on this foundation, ensuring that pupils are equipped for the next stages of their education. Teachers and students alike embrace the challenges presented, leading to commendable achievements across various subjects. In addition to academic success, the school emphasizes the development of mature and empathetic individuals who are aware of the world beyond their immediate surroundings. The curriculum is well-structured, complemented by educational visits that prepare pupils for their roles in society.
Pupils actively contribute to the school community through various leadership roles, such as older students mentoring younger ones during lunchtime. This selfless behavior reflects the trusting relationships that are integral to the school’s culture. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has made significant improvements since its last inspection. Collaborative partnerships among staff and leaders have fostered a productive environment, allowing for effective change management without overwhelming the staff.
The curriculum is designed to maximize local resources, enhancing pupils' learning experiences. Subject content is carefully considered, enabling students to connect new knowledge with prior learning, which deepens their understanding. In 2023, nearly all Year 6 pupils met the expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics, showcasing the effectiveness of the school's educational approach. Teachers are well-informed about the curriculum and provide clear explanations, ensuring that pupils have access to appropriate resources. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in clarifying key knowledge that should be emphasized in certain subjects to ensure a solid grasp of essential concepts.
The early years curriculum prioritizes reading and mathematics, preparing children for Year 1. However, early writing skills require more attention, as some pupils develop poor habits in pencil grip and letter formation, which can hinder their writing fluency later on. The school’s structured approach to reading has proven successful, with staff effectively teaching phonics and supporting pupils at risk of falling behind. Older pupils enjoy a diverse range of texts and can engage in discussions about literature.
While teachers are adept at meeting the needs of their pupils, the systems for identifying those with special educational needs and disabilities lack clarity. This can lead to some pupils not receiving the necessary support. The school is committed to improving its understanding of these needs to ensure all pupils receive appropriate assistance. Overall, pupils demonstrate excellent behavior, showing consideration for others and a strong desire to learn. The school has successfully improved attendance rates, which are now below the national average.
Pupils are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make informed choices about their lives and treat others with respect. They understand fundamental British values and appreciate societal diversity. A variety of extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal development contribute to pupils' growth as reflective and articulate individuals. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Moving forward, the school aims to enhance its early writing expectations and improve the clarity of its systems for identifying pupils with additional needs, ensuring continued progress and success for all students.
