Allithwaite CofE Primary School, located in Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 9, 2022. The school fosters a supportive environment where pupils, including those in the early years, demonstrate care for one another. Older students serve as buddies to younger pupils, facilitating friendships and helping them adapt to school routines. The overall atmosphere is one of happiness and engagement among the students.
The leadership and staff at Allithwaite CofE Primary School are dedicated to ensuring the success of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Students are observed to work diligently in their lessons, meeting the high expectations set by their teachers. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the pupils' achievements across various subjects.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with pupils understanding the impact of their words and actions on others. They feel safe and confident that trusted staff will address any instances of bullying swiftly and effectively. The school community actively participates in charitable initiatives, supporting causes both locally and internationally, such as a school in Uganda and families affected by the conflict in Ukraine. The pupils take pride in their contributions, including fundraising efforts for the Royal British Legion.
The school excels in providing a rich and balanced curriculum, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, have access to the same ambitious learning opportunities. The curriculum is thoughtfully organized, allowing for a logical progression of knowledge and skills from the Nursery Year through to Year Six. Staff members possess strong subject knowledge and adapt their teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of their pupils. They frequently assess understanding and revisit key concepts, which aids in retention and comprehension.
In terms of reading instruction, the school prioritizes phonics, starting from the Reception Year. The early years curriculum effectively develops listening and attention skills, preparing children for their reading journey. Staff are quick to identify pupils who struggle with reading and provide necessary support. However, there are instances where pupils read books that do not align closely with their phonics knowledge, which can hinder their confidence and progress.
The school has established a strong culture of safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. Leaders have implemented comprehensive training for staff, enabling them to recognize signs of neglect and respond appropriately. The school community is educated on safety, including online safety and awareness of potential dangers, such as fireworks during Halloween.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils, particularly those at an early stage of reading in key stage two, are not consistently provided with books that match their phonics knowledge. This misalignment can impede their reading development. Additionally, in certain subjects, the assessment strategies employed by teachers do not yield sufficient information to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, which can slow their progress. Leaders are encouraged to enhance these assessment practices to better support pupils' learning.
Overall, Allithwaite CofE Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment. The commitment of the staff and leadership to the well-being and success of their pupils is evident, and the school community thrives on collaboration and support. With ongoing attention to the identified areas for improvement, the school is well-positioned to maintain its good standing and further enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
