Stainton CofE Primary School, located in Penrith, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 27, 2024. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils are kind, caring, and well-mannered. They take pride in adhering to the high standards set by the school regarding behavior. Early years children quickly adapt to school routines, setting a strong foundation for their education. The overall happiness of the pupils is evident, contributing to a supportive school culture.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil achievement, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils perform well academically and appreciate the recognition they receive for their successes. Stainton CofE Primary School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents. These include clubs focused on drama, gardening, and unique sports activities. Educational trips further enrich the curriculum, providing pupils with opportunities to learn about history and science in engaging ways, such as visiting historical sites and exploring a planetarium.
Pupils also benefit from residential visits that promote outdoor and adventurous activities, fostering leadership skills and resilience. The school has designed a broad and ambitious curriculum, with careful consideration of the connections between concepts and knowledge across subjects. This thoughtful approach enables most pupils to develop a strong understanding of their studies. In the early years, staff encourage curiosity, ensuring that children are well-prepared for future educational stages.
However, there are areas for improvement. In a few subjects, the school has yet to clearly define the essential content that pupils should learn. This lack of clarity can lead to inconsistencies in teaching and gaps in knowledge for some pupils. Addressing this issue will be crucial for ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential. Despite this, staff generally utilize their strong subject knowledge to identify and address learning gaps effectively, providing tailored support to pupils.
The school has a solid understanding of the reading needs of its pupils. Early years children build vocabulary through engaging activities, and the phonics program is delivered consistently from the start of Reception. Pupils with gaps in phonics knowledge receive timely assistance, enabling them to catch up quickly. The books provided to pupils align with their phonics knowledge, fostering confidence and fluency in reading.
Pupils collaborate well during lessons and demonstrate high motivation in their learning. They respect each other's opinions and views, contributing to a positive classroom environment. The school also offers support for a small number of pupils who require assistance with behavior or attendance, ensuring that most pupils maintain good attendance records.
Personal development is a key focus, with pupils learning about online safety, physical and mental health, and the importance of respecting diverse cultures and faiths. The governing body effectively oversees the school's performance and provides strategic direction. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive workplace culture. Parents hold the school in high regard, reflecting the strong community ties.
The safeguarding arrangements at Stainton CofE Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, the school continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to improvement and a focus on the holistic development of its pupils.
