Ridgeway Primary School, located in Sheffield, Derbyshire, has been evaluated positively in its recent inspection conducted on May 10 and 11, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which have also received a good rating. This is consistent with the previous inspection grade, indicating a stable and effective educational environment.
Feedback from pupils, parents, and carers highlights a strong sense of community and support within the school. Pupils express appreciation for their teachers, describing them as really good and noting that lessons are both interesting and enjoyable. Parents of new students commend the staff for their efforts in helping children settle into the school, aligning with the school’s vision of prioritizing every child every day. Safety is a significant concern for pupils, who feel secure and understand how to protect themselves from bullying and online dangers. The presence of ‘kindness kids’ during playtimes further supports a caring atmosphere.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating enthusiasm and resilience in their learning. They understand the importance of perseverance when faced with challenges. Early years children follow routines sensibly, contributing to a positive learning environment. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and music clubs, and engages all year groups in community gardening projects, promoting teamwork and enhancing the curriculum.
Leaders have taken swift action to address recommendations from the previous inspection, focusing on safeguarding and curriculum development. The curriculum has been thoroughly reviewed and revised to ensure it outlines essential knowledge and skills for pupils from early years to Year 6. While curriculum leaders are in place, some are new to their roles and may require additional training to effectively support teachers in implementing the curriculum. There is a need for leaders to monitor teaching practices more closely to ensure consistent quality across subjects.
The school is committed to inclusivity, welcoming pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The culture within the school is caring, and the special educational needs coordinator works closely with staff and parents to address individual needs. However, there is an ongoing effort to ensure that the curriculum is equally ambitious for all pupils, including those with SEND.
Reading is prioritized, with initiatives to foster a love of reading among pupils. The introduction of a systematic phonics program has been well received, and pupils are developing into fluent readers. In mathematics, a consistent teaching approach has been adopted, which has resulted in pupils being confident and engaged learners.
The broader development of pupils is well supported through various opportunities, including participation in the school council and learning about diverse cultures and faiths. This helps cultivate a sense of responsibility and respect among pupils. Staff well-being is also a focus, with leaders providing support and recognizing the demands of the workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ridgeway Primary School are effective, with a strong emphasis on pupil safety. Leaders have improved systems for recording and responding to concerns, ensuring that safeguarding remains a top priority. Pupils receive education on safety through the personal, social, and health education curriculum, which includes discussions on relevant issues.
Overall, Ridgeway Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in leadership training and curriculum monitoring, the school is on a positive trajectory, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive.
