Orton CofE School, located in Penrith, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14, 2022. The school is described as a happy environment by pupils, parents, carers, and staff, aligning with its motto of being a happy place to learn, grow, and thrive. Pupils enjoy positive relationships with their teachers and peers, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. The leadership team and staff are dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve academically while also providing a diverse range of engaging learning opportunities. This commitment is evident in the pride pupils take in their work and the overall positive academic outcomes, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, which is reflected in the respectful and kind interactions among students. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, pupils feel confident that staff will address these issues promptly. Beyond the classroom, the school offers numerous extracurricular activities that foster pupils' interests and talents, including residential trips and community events. The school grounds are appreciated by pupils, particularly for gardening, sports, and quiet reflection areas.
The curriculum at Orton CofE School is broad and well-structured, with most subjects being developed effectively to ensure that pupils build knowledge logically from early years through to Year 6. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum is still being finalized, which can affect the continuity of learning. Reading is prioritized within the school, and pupils are enthusiastic about the new library and the variety of books available. The phonics and early reading curriculum is effective, although some pupils occasionally encounter reading materials that do not align closely with their phonetic knowledge, which can hinder their fluency and confidence.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Leaders are also focused on promoting awareness of diversity and fundamental British values, engaging pupils in learning about different cultures and participating in community celebrations. The school emphasizes the importance of enriching the curriculum through various trips and activities, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior throughout the school day, showing attentiveness to their teachers and peers. Their positive attitudes contribute significantly to the learning environment. The governing body is actively involved in the school, providing oversight and support to ensure continuous improvement while considering staff well-being in decision-making processes.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety established within the school. Staff receive regular training and are well-informed about procedures to follow if concerns arise regarding a pupil's welfare. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety and swimming skills, and they know whom to approach with any worries.
To enhance its performance, the school needs to finalize the key knowledge for a small number of subjects to ensure that pupils can build on their learning effectively. Additionally, teachers should ensure that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonetic knowledge to support their development as fluent readers. Overall, Orton CofE School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
