Curbar Primary School, located in Calver Bridge, Derbyshire, was inspected on 15 and 16 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while early years provision was also deemed outstanding. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school was last inspected 15 years ago, during which it was rated outstanding under a previous framework.
Pupils at Curbar Primary School demonstrate a strong enjoyment of their educational experience. They exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and engage happily with peers during playtime. Older students take on responsibilities such as playground monitors and reading buddies, fostering a supportive environment for younger pupils. The school promotes a culture of good citizenship through its ‘Curbar code,’ encouraging students to strive for excellence in their behaviour.
In the early years, children are eager to learn, with staff effectively guiding them in communication and collaboration. The curriculum is well-structured, offering a variety of activities that align with children's interests and prepare them for future educational stages. The school environment is safe and nurturing, with staff who know the pupils well. Students with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive. The school emphasizes the importance of health and safety, teaching pupils how to care for their mental well-being.
The curriculum at Curbar Primary School is ambitious and engaging, designed to equip pupils with essential knowledge and skills for their educational journey. Staff have identified key knowledge areas across subjects, and the curriculum is sequenced to deepen understanding over time. However, the school has yet to establish effective routines for monitoring the delivery of all subjects and assessing how well pupils retain what they have learned.
In lessons, staff present new information clearly, with a strong emphasis on literacy and vocabulary development. While lesson activities are generally well-designed, there are instances where adaptations are insufficient to support all pupils in grasping new concepts quickly. Although pupils with special educational needs benefit from effective support, some misconceptions may not be addressed promptly, hindering overall progress.
Reading is a high priority at the school, with a well-structured phonics program in place for early years and key stage one pupils. Regular assessments ensure that students receive additional support when necessary, and they enjoy a diverse range of reading materials.
The early years curriculum is tailored to meet individual children's needs, helping them build on prior knowledge and expand their understanding of the world. Children actively engage in learning activities that develop their physical and social skills.
Behaviour throughout the school is exemplary, with no disruptions to learning. Positive attitudes towards education are cultivated from the early years and maintained as pupils progress. The school effectively supports the personal development of its students, teaching them about diversity, equality, and British values through various lessons and assemblies.
Staff at Curbar Primary School report high job satisfaction, with the school prioritizing their well-being and professional development. Governors are well-informed about the school's priorities and provide strong support and challenge.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school must focus on delivering the new curriculum consistently and establishing a rigorous plan for evaluating its effectiveness to identify areas for improvement promptly. Overall, Curbar Primary School provides a solid educational foundation for its pupils, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
