Kirkbride Primary School, located in Wigton, Cumbria, has recently undergone an inspection on the 7th and 8th of March 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education, with the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision all rated as good. Notably, the behaviour and attitudes of pupils were rated as outstanding, reflecting a positive school culture where pupils are kind, respectful, and supportive of one another.
Pupils at Kirkbride Primary School enjoy their time at school, exhibiting exemplary behaviour and a strong sense of community. The school promotes six core values: trust, friendship, honesty, ambition, respect, and kindness, which pupils actively engage with in their daily lives. The leadership team has high expectations for pupil achievement, and recent curriculum improvements have led to enhanced learning outcomes. Pupils are now retaining more knowledge and demonstrating a deeper understanding of the subjects taught.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including various sports clubs, a cookery club, and a singing group, which pupils appreciate. Additionally, the school organizes numerous trips and visits, allowing pupils to explore the world beyond their rural community. These experiences include residential trips to London and participation in events in Manchester, enriching the pupils' educational journey.
Leaders have made significant strides in developing an ambitious curriculum that aligns with the needs and interests of the pupils. The curriculum is designed to build on prior learning from early years through to Year 6, ensuring that all pupils, regardless of age, receive a comprehensive education. Teachers have adapted well to the new curriculum, although there are some inconsistencies in its implementation across different subjects. Leaders are in the early stages of monitoring the curriculum's delivery to ensure that all pupils are making consistent progress.
Reading is a priority at Kirkbride Primary School, with a well-structured phonics program in place. Staff are well-trained to deliver this program effectively, enabling pupils to become confident and fluent readers. The school has established effective processes for identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that appropriate support is provided to help them succeed.
In the early years, children benefit from a well-designed curriculum, although there are areas for improvement in the outdoor learning environment. The school is committed to enhancing these opportunities to ensure that children can consolidate their learning effectively. The school fosters a positive culture of safeguarding, with staff trained to recognize and address potential concerns promptly.
While the school has made considerable progress, there are areas identified for further improvement. Leaders need to enhance their oversight of curriculum delivery to ensure consistency across subjects. Additionally, outdoor learning opportunities in the early years require development to better align with the indoor curriculum. The governing body is also in the process of building its expertise to provide more effective oversight and challenge to school leaders.
Overall, Kirkbride Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school’s commitment to high standards, combined with a supportive community, creates a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success.
