Burbage Primary School, located in Buxton, Derbyshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 19th and 20th of September 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving a good rating. Notably, the behaviour and attitudes of the pupils were rated as outstanding. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good from April 2018.
Pupils at Burbage Primary School express enjoyment in their learning experiences and appreciate the supportive and caring environment fostered by the staff. Parents and carers overwhelmingly support the school, highlighting the individual attention given to pupils and the engaging nature of the learning process. The curriculum has been recently redesigned to enhance retention and understanding, with pupils recalling specific projects and experiences, such as studying sculptures by Barbara Hepworth and visiting the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The school hosts termly events where pupils showcase their learning, which parents find valuable and indicative of their children's enthusiasm.
The school promotes a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and happy. Their behaviour is exemplary, with strong cooperation among peers and a focus on independent work. The school encourages participation in various clubs, including those initiated by pupils themselves, fostering leadership skills and responsibility. The curriculum is ambitious, with regular assessments to ensure knowledge retention. Pupils engage in creative subjects like computing and history, where they enjoy hands-on learning experiences and discussions with local historians.
Reading is a significant focus, with pupils enjoying access to a library bus and being encouraged by reading ambassadors. However, some pupils face challenges in blending sounds to read words, indicating a need for more consistent strategies to support their reading development. The school is actively working to improve writing skills, providing more opportunities for composition, which has shown positive results.
In mathematics, pupils regularly engage in reasoning and problem-solving activities, demonstrating a good grasp of their times tables. The early years provision is effective, with children quickly adapting to routines and remaining focused during learning activities. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate care, although there are instances where the work set does not fully meet their needs, hindering their progress.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behaviour and empathy towards one another, with initiatives like anti-bullying ambassadors promoting a culture of care. The school effectively supports pupils struggling with attendance, leading to improvements in their participation. Personal development is prioritized, with lessons on online safety and well-being initiatives.
While the school has made strides in promoting diversity, there is still work to be done in ensuring pupils have a comprehensive understanding of different faiths and cultures. Leaders are committed to expanding the curriculum to include a broader range of diverse texts.
Staff feel supported, with their feedback valued in managing workloads. Governance is effective, providing both support and challenge to the school leadership. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to address inconsistencies in curriculum implementation, particularly for pupils with special educational needs. Ensuring that all pupils build their knowledge sequentially across subjects is essential. Additionally, enhancing pupils' understanding of various religions will better prepare them for life in modern Britain. Overall, Burbage Primary School is a nurturing environment that fosters learning and personal growth, with a clear commitment to continuous improvement.
