Dane Ghyll Community Primary School and Nursery, located in Barrow in Furness, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 10 and 11, 2024. The school provides a vibrant and welcoming environment where pupils, including those in the early years, enjoy attending. Students look forward to their classroom experiences, particularly valuing the opportunity to learn alongside their friends. The behavior of pupils during lessons is commendable; they listen attentively and actively participate in discussions. During playtimes, students engage in cooperative play, supported by well-being ambassadors and playground buddies who ensure that everyone is cared for. The school promotes a culture of respect, with pupils demonstrating good manners and consideration for one another.
Dane Ghyll has high expectations for all its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school fosters a strong work ethic, and most students achieve well across the curriculum. The school offers a rich array of activities, including local area visits and residential trips that enhance team-building skills. Pupils take pride in performing music for the local community and feel that their opinions are valued, contributing to decision-making processes within the school. Older students embrace their responsibilities, striving to be positive role models and meeting the school’s high standards.
The school excels in fostering a love of reading among its pupils. Students are enthusiastic about selecting books and enjoy discovering new authors. In the early years, children express their excitement for reading through daily voting for their favorite books. The two-year-old provision effectively engages children with songs and rhymes, preparing them for phonics instruction in Reception. Staff deliver phonics lessons expertly, ensuring that children make significant progress and practice reading with appropriately leveled books. Consequently, most children read fluently and expressively by the time they reach key stage two.
Dane Ghyll has established a broad and ambitious curriculum that nurtures a love of learning from early years through to Year 6. Staff focus on developing a rich vocabulary among pupils, which is evident in their engagement with various subjects. The school is currently refining its curriculum in certain areas to ensure that the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire is clearly defined. While many subjects are well-structured, some lack clarity regarding the specific vocabulary that students should learn, which can hinder their ability to articulate their understanding fully.
The school is proactive in identifying pupils' additional needs and adapts its curriculum delivery accordingly, enabling students with special educational needs to make good progress. Pupils appreciate the real-life connections made through their learning experiences, such as trips to Furness Abbey and London. They have opportunities to join various clubs that enhance their musical, artistic, and sporting talents, including a school garden where they grow seasonal food for healthy snacks.
Governors play an essential role in supporting the school, focusing on staff professional development and ensuring that teachers feel supported in their roles. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, creating a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Dane Ghyll Community Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a high-quality education, with a strong emphasis on pupil well-being, engagement, and achievement. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in refining its curriculum to ensure that all pupils can deepen their knowledge and understanding across all subjects.
