Plumpton School, located in Penrith, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 12, 2022. The school fosters a happy and safe environment where pupils feel valued and supported by the staff. The sense of community is strong, with students enjoying their time together during breaks and engaging positively with one another. The pupils demonstrate a keen interest in their learning, showing attentiveness in lessons and a strong work ethic. They are aware of the high expectations set by their teachers and appreciate the support provided to help them succeed. The curriculum is ambitious, encouraging curiosity and excitement about the world.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with respect and kindness emphasized by the staff. The school promotes an understanding of diversity, and pupils feel confident that any bullying incidents would be addressed promptly. The school organizes enjoyable trips, which enhance the learning experience, and pupils express enthusiasm for upcoming events. The extensive grounds and surrounding countryside are also appreciated by the students.
Leadership at Plumpton School ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a broad curriculum aligned with national standards. Pupils, including those in the early years, speak positively about their learning experiences. In most subjects, leaders have clearly identified the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire, and this knowledge is organized effectively to build upon prior learning. Consequently, pupils achieve well in these areas.
However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum planning is not yet finalized, which can hinder teachers from delivering the most effective learning experiences. While pupils progress in these subjects, some do not achieve to their full potential. Teachers generally employ effective assessment strategies to monitor pupil knowledge and adapt their teaching accordingly. They are also working to address any gaps in learning that may have arisen due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Younger pupils benefit from daily phonics sessions, and a new phonics program has been introduced, with staff receiving appropriate training. This has led to early success in reading, with most pupils reading fluently by the end of Year 2. A love for books is evident throughout the school, with both younger and older pupils enjoying story times and developing strong comprehension skills.
In mathematics, children in the early years are regaining their confidence and fluency post-pandemic. Leaders are committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive effective assistance and access to the same challenging curriculum as their peers. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident, with minimal disruption in lessons.
Pupils appreciate the well-structured personal, social, and health education program, which teaches them about different cultures and the importance of tolerance. The school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and have received support from governors to meet the needs of pupils and families during challenging times.
Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, with all respondents to the Ofsted Parent View indicating they would recommend Plumpton School. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and updates to ensure pupil welfare is prioritized. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, it is encouraged to finalize curriculum planning in certain subjects to enhance pupil achievement further.
