Kirkoswald Church of England School, located in Kirkoswald, Penrith, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 22, 2020. The school plays a vital role in the rural community it serves, fostering a happy environment for both pupils and staff. The headteacher's aspirations for student success are shared by the entire staff and governing body, creating a culture where pupils are encouraged to explore their interests and talents. This nurturing atmosphere contributes to the overall well-being and achievement of the students.
Pupils express a strong sense of safety within the school, attributing this to the understanding and supportive nature of their teachers. They demonstrate good behavior and report that instances of bullying are infrequent and effectively addressed by staff. During break times, pupils engage positively with one another, reflecting the well-supervised environment. The school encourages students to take on responsibilities, such as serving as lunchtime monitors and participating in committees, including an eco-committee that leads conservation efforts. Recent projects, like tree planting, have instilled a sense of pride among pupils.
The curriculum is designed to meet the needs and interests of the students, promoting enthusiasm for learning and curiosity about the world. Pupils work diligently and enjoy their educational experiences, with minimal disruptions during lessons. The curriculum aligns with national standards, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge across various subjects. This approach enables students to apply their learning effectively, resulting in strong performance in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of Year 6, including those with special educational needs.
Collaboration among staff is encouraged, with teachers sharing expertise and ideas, particularly with colleagues from other schools. Most teachers possess a solid understanding of their subjects, which enhances the delivery of the curriculum. However, some teachers, particularly in subjects like science, may lack confidence in their subject knowledge. School leaders are actively working to support these teachers to ensure all staff are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively.
Phonics instruction begins in the Reception class, with children engaging in various activities to practice their sounds. The reading materials provided align with the phonics being taught, and parent workshops help families support their children's reading at home. The majority of pupils meet the required standards in phonics screening, with skilled staff assisting those who need extra help to catch up.
The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils enjoying storytime and discussing inspirational books. They appreciate the opportunity to explore different genres and utilize the well-resourced library for research. By Year 2, pupils effectively apply their expanding vocabulary in writing, and by Key Stage 2, they demonstrate a good grasp of grammar, spelling, and punctuation. However, some year groups may not provide enough opportunities for pupils to apply their writing skills, impacting their overall achievement.
Pupils enthusiastically participate in enriching activities, including visits to places of worship and cultural institutions. They express ambitions for future careers and embrace challenges presented during outdoor learning and residential trips. The governing body is aware of the unique challenges faced by staff in a small school and ensures that staff feel valued and supported. The school community thrives, with governors actively involved in maintaining educational quality.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders ensure that vulnerable pupils receive necessary support, and students are educated on safety in various contexts, including online environments. While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent implementation of the writing curriculum across all year groups and enhancing teachers' subject knowledge in specific areas. Overall, Kirkoswald Church of England School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
