Askam Village School, located in Askam-in-Furness, Cumbria, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 15 and 16, 2022. The school provides a warm and friendly environment where pupils feel welcomed and valued. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety while attending the school, taking pride in their achievements both academically and in extracurricular activities.
The school has established clear expectations for behavior from the early years, ensuring that pupils are courteous and polite. They understand the concept of bullying and are aware that trusted adults will address any concerns they may have. Incidents of bullying are reportedly dealt with promptly, contributing to a positive school atmosphere. Pupils enjoy a variety of activities, including sports, art, and musical theatre, and parents appreciate the support provided by the staff.
Pupils are also encouraged to engage with their local community and take part in environmental initiatives, such as litter picking, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community spirit. The curriculum at Askam Village School is ambitious and well-structured, designed to excite and engage pupils from the moment they join in the Nursery class. Leaders have a clear understanding of the knowledge that pupils should acquire and the timing of its delivery, which helps teachers effectively build on prior learning.
Assessment strategies are generally well-utilized by teachers to monitor pupils' understanding and retention of new information. However, there are some subjects where the use of assessment could be improved to better inform future teaching. The school has prioritized reading, providing a wide range of high-quality books and a well-ordered phonics curriculum that supports early reading development. Most pupils learn to read accurately and fluently, with additional support available for those who need it.
Attendance rates are high, and pupils demonstrate good behavior and self-discipline, starting from the early years where they learn to follow established routines. They show respect for one another and for staff, with minimal disruption to learning. Pupils are motivated and focused, contributing positively to the school environment. They participate actively in school life, learning to be responsible citizens through initiatives like the school council, which amplifies their voices in decision-making processes.
Leaders and governors have a clear vision for the school, understanding its strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel supported by leadership, which prioritizes their workload and well-being. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff trained to identify and report any concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders act promptly to address any issues and collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support for vulnerable pupils.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in the consistent use of assessment strategies across all subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers effectively identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge to enhance learning outcomes. Overall, Askam Village School is a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters academic and personal growth, preparing pupils to be active and responsible members of their community. The positive feedback from parents and the commitment of staff contribute to the school's reputation as a good educational institution.
