Norman Street Primary School in Carlisle, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 17 and 18, 2024. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils and their families feel proud to be part of the community. Staff members are well-acquainted with the children and their families, which helps in addressing any barriers to attendance and enjoyment of school. Pupils express trust in their teachers, feeling confident that they can share their concerns and that issues will be resolved promptly.
The school offers a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that enhance the curriculum, and well-planned trips and visits support the skills and knowledge pupils acquire in class. Students appreciate the opportunities to contribute to their school and local community, such as improvements made by the school council and interactions with residents in a local care home.
Pupils, including those in early years, understand the high expectations set by staff regarding behavior and achievement. They demonstrate readiness, safety, and respect, which teachers commend, helping students grasp the impact of their actions on others. Engagement in lessons is high, and students enjoy learning new concepts and skills, typically achieving well.
The school has undergone significant staffing changes recently, prompting effective decisions to enhance the quality of education. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with careful consideration of the knowledge and skills to be taught at each year level. While many subjects are taught effectively, some newer curriculum changes have led to occasional challenges in selecting the most suitable activities for deeper learning.
In subjects where improvements are still being developed, current assessment strategies do not always align well with the curriculum, making it difficult for staff to identify gaps in pupils' learning. The school has prioritized reading instruction, with staff demonstrating a clear understanding of how pupils learn to read. In early years, learning is reinforced through engaging methods, and the phonics scheme is implemented effectively from the start of the Reception Year. Assessments help identify gaps in phonics knowledge, ensuring that pupils, including those who speak English as an additional language, make rapid progress.
A love of reading is evident throughout the school, with pupils regularly sharing stories and being exposed to a variety of genres and authors. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a notable strength, with effective processes in place for identifying additional needs and building strong relationships with families and local agencies.
The school's approach to behavior management focuses on celebrating positive behavior while helping pupils learn from their mistakes. This strategy has been well-received by staff, pupils, and parents, contributing to a calm learning environment where respect is mutual. Attendance rates are high.
The school offers extensive opportunities for pupils to develop skills beyond academics, listening to their interests to shape experiences. Pupils value recognition for their positive interactions and resilience. The school ensures exposure to diverse contexts and cultures, fostering a strong understanding of modern British life.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school should support staff in selecting appropriate activities in subjects where deeper learning is not yet fully realized and enhance assessment strategies to accurately identify pupils' prior knowledge before introducing new concepts. Overall, Norman Street Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong commitment to improvement and community engagement.
