Seascale Primary School, located in Cumbria, has recently undergone an inspection on January 24 and 25, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel included and valued. Students exhibit politeness, kindness, and consideration towards one another, with older pupils serving as positive role models for younger children. The strong relationships among pupils and staff contribute to a happy school atmosphere, where pupils feel comfortable sharing their concerns with staff.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil achievement, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the necessary support to succeed in their learning. Pupils are engaged in lessons, demonstrating a willingness to try their best and listen attentively to their teachers. Most students achieve well academically. The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as participating in school councils and serving as anti-bullying ambassadors, which fosters a sense of pride and ownership in their roles.
Seascale Primary School has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that outlines the essential knowledge pupils should acquire from early years through Year 6. The school effectively identifies the additional needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored support to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Teachers regularly assess pupil learning and adjust their teaching strategies to address any gaps in knowledge. However, there are instances where the chosen learning activities and resources do not effectively support pupils in acquiring the essential knowledge and skills, leading to some gaps in learning in certain subjects.
Reading is a priority at the school, with pupils benefiting from a diverse selection of books and a well-structured phonics program that begins in Reception. This program enables pupils to read confidently and accurately, with additional support provided for those who struggle. Behaviour is generally good, with children in the early years quickly learning to follow routines and develop social skills. On rare occasions, some pupils may feel overwhelmed, but staff are equipped to provide effective support to help them manage their emotions.
Despite the positive aspects, some pupils do not attend school as regularly as they should, which affects their overall educational experience. The school is aware of the reasons behind low attendance and works with families to improve it, but persistent absenteeism remains an issue for certain groups of pupils. The school has implemented a strong personal development program, offering various opportunities for pupils to engage with their local environment and understand global issues. Initiatives include community clean-up projects and cultural exchanges, which enhance pupils' understanding of diversity and the world around them.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the school, although their oversight of attendance issues could be more robust. The school has made efforts to consider staff workload, allowing teachers to focus on their teaching without unnecessary burdens. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while Seascale Primary School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the selection of learning activities and strategies to enhance attendance for all pupils.
