Durham Lane Primary School, located in Eaglescliffe, Stockton-on-Tees, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 15 and 16, 2022. The school prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils, fostering a strong sense of community where students feel supported and included. Pupils describe their experience as being part of a large family, emphasizing kindness and mutual support. The school environment promotes good behavior, allowing students to concentrate on their learning without distractions, and instances of bullying are rare. Pupils express confidence that any issues would be promptly addressed by school leaders.
The school has made significant strides in enhancing communication with parents, ensuring they are well-informed about their children's progress. Strong relationships between home and school are evident, and parents appreciate the wraparound childcare services offered. A variety of after-school clubs, including football and dance, enrich the pupils' experiences.
Leaders at Durham Lane Primary School have worked diligently to develop an ambitious curriculum with high expectations for all students. Recent changes have already begun to yield positive results, with a balanced focus on academic achievement and pastoral care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vulnerable families received essential support, including technology for remote learning and food vouchers, which were greatly appreciated.
Reading has been a key focus since the last inspection, with a new phonics teaching approach implemented. Staff have been trained to deliver this program effectively, and new reading materials have been introduced to align with the phonics curriculum. While younger pupils are benefiting from this initiative, some older pupils in key stage two are facing challenges due to gaps in their phonics knowledge. Leaders are actively promoting a love of reading, with a refurbished library and regular author visits enhancing the reading culture within the school.
The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge, ensuring that pupils develop a solid understanding of key concepts, particularly in mathematics. Teachers effectively use assessments to adapt their teaching and provide targeted support. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that knowledge retention is secure across all foundation subjects, such as computing, where pupils struggle to recall previous learning.
Durham Lane Primary School is committed to inclusivity, providing tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils are integrated into mainstream classes whenever possible, receiving specialized assistance from professionals. The curriculum promotes equality and diversity, with reading materials reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the school community.
The school encourages pupils to become responsible citizens, engaging in community support initiatives and contributing to charitable causes. Staff members express pride in their work at the school, feeling valued and supported by leadership. Recent changes to policies have helped reduce workload, contributing to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with thorough pre-employment checks and ongoing training for staff. The school emphasizes online safety, educating pupils about the importance of protecting personal information and reporting concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas that require attention. Leaders must ensure that pupils in key stage two receive the necessary support to address gaps in their phonics knowledge. Additionally, the assessment system for foundation subjects needs to be refined to better identify knowledge gaps and reinforce prior learning. Overall, Durham Lane Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
