Richmond Hill School, located in Aspatria, Wigton, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 10 and 11, 2021. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils express pride in their school and engage in various responsibilities, such as assisting in the school office and mentoring younger students during playtime. The environment is described as friendly and welcoming, contributing to a strong sense of community among students.
The staff at Richmond Hill School are dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment. Pupils across different year groups demonstrate enthusiasm for their education, with younger children enjoying interactive storytelling and older students expressing excitement about hands-on projects like creating bird boxes in design technology. This approach to learning not only makes education enjoyable but also ensures that pupils achieve well academically.
The school emphasizes core values such as respect, kindness, and honesty, which are reflected in the behavior of the students. They exhibit good conduct in lessons and throughout the school, with a strong belief that any instances of bullying would be promptly addressed by the staff. Pupils feel safe and happy, trusting the staff to care for their well-being and knowing where to seek help if needed.
Richmond Hill School has developed an effective and engaging curriculum that spans a wide range of subjects, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have clearly outlined the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire at each stage of their education, particularly for Years 1 to 6. This clarity aids teachers in planning lessons that incorporate vital learning objectives. However, there are some areas within the early years curriculum that require further detail to ensure that children are adequately prepared for Year 1.
Teachers actively monitor pupils' understanding and provide necessary support to prevent any learning gaps. Most subject leaders have received training to enhance their roles, ensuring that the curriculum effectively promotes knowledge retention among pupils. Nonetheless, some newer subject leaders may require additional training to fully assess pupil progress in their subjects.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with pupils, including those with special educational needs, developing strong reading skills. The school has carefully selected books that introduce important vocabulary, and children in the early years begin learning phonics immediately. This systematic approach to reading fosters a love for literature, with older pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favorite books and authors.
The school also prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils teamwork through a house system and providing opportunities to learn about the world of work. Pupils engage in activities such as writing applications for school ambassador roles and receiving 'salaries' for their contributions. They also explore diverse cultures through educational trips to multicultural cities.
Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, instilling a sense of responsibility from a young age. The leadership team is attentive to staff workload and well-being, fostering a supportive environment where staff feel valued.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with regular training ensuring that staff are vigilant and knowledgeable about recognizing and reporting concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, including internet safety, further contributing to a secure learning environment.
While Richmond Hill School is performing well, there are areas for improvement. New subject leaders need more training to effectively lead their subjects and assess pupil learning. Additionally, the early years curriculum requires more detailed planning to ensure that all essential content is covered, laying a solid foundation for future learning. Overall, Richmond Hill School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
