Kirkbampton CofE School in Carlisle, Cumbria, underwent an inspection on 19 and 20 October 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Kirkbampton are proud of their school and express feelings of safety and happiness. They demonstrate politeness, courtesy, and respect towards one another and are confident that staff will effectively address any instances of bullying. The early years program is particularly strong, with skilled staff fostering independence and resilience in children, especially during outdoor exploration. Adults actively engage in children's imaginative play, promoting language development.
The school encourages pupils to participate in adventurous and cultural activities within the local community and beyond. Pupils show a strong sense of responsibility towards each other and the environment, emphasizing the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. High expectations for behavior are set by leaders and teachers, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons, as pupils are eager to learn.
The curriculum has been redesigned to be ambitious and logically ordered, ensuring that all pupils know what they need to learn to achieve well. This well-structured curriculum allows pupils in key stages one and two to develop a solid foundation of subject knowledge. The early years curriculum is also effective, with activities designed to enhance children's counting and number comparison skills, preparing them for future learning in mathematics and other subjects.
Teachers possess good subject knowledge and are adept at providing support tailored to the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They engage in reflective practices and utilize various training opportunities to enhance their teaching methods. However, there are some areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of learning in certain foundation subjects. Leaders need to develop more consistent systems for checking pupil progress in these areas to address any gaps in knowledge.
Reading instruction begins early, with pupils building on their phonics knowledge as they progress through key stage one. Well-trained staff provide frequent reading practice with carefully selected books that match pupils' phonics skills. Those who struggle with reading receive timely support, and teachers frequently read to pupils, fostering a love for reading. Older pupils express enjoyment in reading and can discuss their favorite authors and books.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and ensures they receive appropriate support to access the same curriculum as their peers. This inclusive approach enables all pupils to succeed and be prepared for the next stage of their education.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, rarely disrupting others, and they attend school regularly and punctually. They understand the difference between right and wrong and actively participate in community events, such as celebrating the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. These experiences help pupils learn about the wider world and prepare them for life in modern British society.
Leaders prioritize physical activity, providing numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in healthy pursuits. The governing body is actively involved in the school's strategic planning and supports staff well-being. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure pupil safety. Overall, Kirkbampton CofE School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
