Appleby Primary School, located in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, has recently undergone an inspection on the 26th and 27th of March 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, which reflects positively on the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which have also been rated as good. This marks a consistent performance since the previous inspection in October 2018, where the school was also rated good.
Pupils at Appleby Primary School express pride in being part of a supportive and caring community. They enjoy strong relationships with both staff and peers, which fosters a positive learning environment. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as older students mentoring younger ones, which enhances their sense of belonging and community involvement. The curriculum is designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. As a result, students generally enjoy their learning experiences and achieve commendable outcomes.
The school enriches its curriculum through various extracurricular activities, including trips, clubs, and hands-on experiences. Pupils are particularly enthusiastic about engaging with the school’s vegetable patch, participating in the choir, being part of the rock band, and attending the photography club. These activities not only help in developing their talents but also promote teamwork and social skills. The school places a strong emphasis on high expectations for behavior, and pupils typically demonstrate courteous and considerate behavior towards one another, staff, and visitors. They are encouraged to be resilient when faced with challenges in their learning.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with clear identification of essential knowledge from Nursery to Year 6. However, in some subjects, the alignment between the work assigned to pupils and the curriculum aims is not sufficiently strong. This misalignment can hinder the effectiveness of learning in certain areas. The school is aware of this and is working to ensure that the intended curriculum is implemented consistently across all subjects.
Assessment practices at the school are generally effective, with staff using assessment information to inform future learning. Most pupils are well-prepared for the next stage of their education by the end of Year 6. The school has made significant strides in developing its early reading curriculum, ensuring that children in the Nursery class engage in activities that lay a strong foundation for phonics learning in Reception. Staff receive adequate training to deliver the phonics program effectively, and support is provided for pupils who struggle with reading.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and participate actively in lessons. They navigate the school calmly and demonstrate politeness in their interactions. The school promotes the importance of high attendance and punctuality, providing support to families to improve attendance when necessary. The breadth of experiences offered to pupils supports their overall development, with opportunities to participate in after-school clubs and showcase their talents through performances.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively involved in monitoring the school’s progress against identified development areas. Staff appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them and the support provided for their well-being. The school is mindful of staff workload when making decisions regarding policies and procedures.
The safeguarding arrangements at Appleby Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is focused on addressing the areas identified for development, particularly in ensuring consistent delivery of the curriculum across all subjects. Overall, Appleby Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment that supports the growth and development of its pupils.
