Shap Endowed CofE Primary School, located in Shap, Penrith, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 16, 2024. The school is characterized by a warm and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and engaged. Staff greet students with friendly smiles each morning, fostering a sense of belonging and safety. The school's mission to provide a supportive foundation for pupils to thrive is evident in the positive relationships between staff and students, as well as within the wider community.
Pupils at Shap Endowed are encouraged to meet high academic expectations, and most students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve commendable results. The school promotes a love for learning, with students taking pride in their accomplishments, which are showcased through impressive displays of their work throughout the school. The culture of respect and kindness is instilled from the earliest years, as children in the Nursery class learn to share and support one another.
The school offers a diverse range of activities that enrich the educational experience, including theatre trips, farm visits, and dance workshops. Residential trips to culturally significant locations broaden pupils' perspectives, while opportunities to participate in debating, music, and sports events allow them to represent the school proudly. Collaborative projects with local schools enhance their social interactions and teamwork skills.
While the school has established a well-ordered and ambitious curriculum that builds logically from early years to Year 6, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the clarity of what pupils should learn and when is lacking, which can hinder teachers' ability to design effective learning experiences that build knowledge over time. Additionally, while teachers generally check pupils' understanding during lessons, there are instances where this is not done consistently across all subjects, leading to potential gaps in knowledge.
The school prioritizes early reading, with children in the Nursery class engaging in rhymes and shared reading, laying a strong foundation for phonics instruction in subsequent years. Most pupils progress to read fluently and accurately by the time they reach key stage two. Reading is integrated throughout the curriculum, and older pupils express enthusiasm for the variety of texts available to them, appreciating the school library's inviting atmosphere.
Pupils with special educational needs are quickly identified and receive tailored support to access the curriculum effectively. They are fully included in all aspects of school life and make significant progress from their starting points. The school promotes good behavior, with older pupils taking on leadership roles to facilitate play and activities for younger students. Attendance rates have improved due to the school's partnership with parents, emphasizing the importance of regular school attendance.
Governors demonstrate a strong understanding of their responsibilities and are committed to the school's vision. They consider staff well-being in decision-making, which contributes to a supportive work environment. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and welfare are prioritized.
To enhance its educational provision, the school should refine its curriculum in certain subjects to ensure that key knowledge is clearly defined and revisited over time. Additionally, improving assessment strategies will help identify and address gaps in pupils' understanding more effectively. Overall, Shap Endowed CofE Primary School continues to provide a positive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
