Penny Acres Primary School, located in Holmesfield, Dronfield, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 4, 2023. The pupils at Penny Acres express a strong sense of pride in their school, highlighting the quality of education, inclusivity, and safety they experience. The school fosters an environment where high expectations are set by teachers, leading to exemplary behavior among students. The positive attitudes of the pupils significantly enhance their learning experience, with older students serving as excellent role models for the younger ones.
The school provides a comprehensive personal, health, and social education curriculum, equipping pupils with the knowledge to maintain their health and safety. They are well-informed about bullying, including its various forms, and they report that bullying is not a concern within the school. The trust pupils have in their teachers to address any issues is a testament to the supportive environment cultivated at Penny Acres.
Community involvement is emphasized, with pupils participating in local events such as the Well Dressing event, which helps them appreciate their local heritage and the importance of collaboration. The school community is described as a large family, reinforcing the sense of belonging among students.
The leadership at Penny Acres has developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While the curriculum is well-structured in most subjects, some foundation subjects require further development to ensure consistency across the board. The curriculum promotes the use of ambitious language, and pupils demonstrate confidence in their articulation.
Senior leaders recognize the significance of effective subject leadership and have invested in the professional development of staff, which has positively impacted teaching quality. Subject leadership is particularly strong in mathematics, art, and modern foreign languages, although there is room for improvement in other areas. Teachers deliver lessons with enthusiasm and skill, employing effective questioning techniques to deepen pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge.
The phonics curriculum is well-organized, enabling pupils to begin reading as soon as they enter early years provision. The school provides a variety of reading materials that align with the phonics being taught, and most pupils become fluent readers. The school actively promotes a love of reading through various activities and events, which pupils enthusiastically engage in.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with their needs being quickly identified and addressed. The school ensures that all pupils have access to a range of extracurricular opportunities, including sports, music, and educational trips, which enrich their learning experiences. The emphasis on equality and diversity is evident, with pupils expressing that everyone is treated fairly regardless of differences.
Parents hold the school in high regard, appreciating the nurturing environment and the dedication of the staff. The headteacher prioritizes the welfare of both pupils and staff, contributing to high staff retention and a positive school culture. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff being vigilant and approachable, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
Overall, Penny Acres Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education in a caring and inclusive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of the curriculum across all subjects, the school demonstrates a commitment to excellence and the well-being of its pupils. The positive feedback from parents and the strong sense of community further underscore the school's success in fostering a supportive and enriching educational experience.
