Overseal Primary School, located in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 15 and 16, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and supportive environment where every pupil is valued. Students express satisfaction with their relationships with peers and teachers, noting that the staff are kind and fair. The school implements a behavior management system known as ‘good to be green,’ which encourages positive behavior and motivates students to strive for rewards. This system contributes to a culture of good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school.
Pupils feel safe at Oversal Primary School, with teachers ensuring that students understand the concept of bullying and the importance of reporting any issues. The school has established a supportive framework, including well-trained staff and a designated ‘Chill Den’ where students can discuss their feelings and learn coping strategies. The leadership team is committed to providing all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, with the necessary support to thrive academically and socially.
The curriculum at Oversal Primary School is well-structured, allowing new learning to build on prior knowledge. Key knowledge is clearly identified, and there are specific goals for what pupils should achieve by the end of their time at the school. This is particularly evident in the mathematics curriculum, where students develop a strong understanding of numbers and patterns from an early age, progressing to more complex concepts by Year 6. However, the geography curriculum lacks the same level of clarity in its planning.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a diverse selection of books available to engage students and foster a love for reading. The curriculum encourages reading across various subjects, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension skills. Teachers introduce students to subject-specific terminology, enabling them to articulate their learning effectively. While phonics instruction is prioritized, some staff members require further training to support pupils adequately in this area.
The school is proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of pupils with special educational needs. Staff are attentive to sensory needs and provide strategies to help students manage their emotions in a busy environment. The designated leader for SEND monitors progress and ensures that parents are kept informed about the support their children receive.
Pupils at Oversal Primary School benefit from a wide range of extracurricular experiences that contribute to their personal development. The school’s ‘Cultural Passport’ outlines various opportunities, including theatre visits, sports activities, and music lessons. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for life in modern Britain, emphasizing respect, diversity, and relationship management. The leadership team prioritizes pupil well-being, recognizing the challenges faced during recent years and striving to support both academic and personal growth.
The school community, including pupils, staff, parents, and governors, expresses pride in being part of Oversal Primary School, with unanimous support for its initiatives. Safeguarding measures are effective, with clear procedures in place to ensure pupil safety. Staff are trained to recognize and report concerns, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various situations.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some curriculum plans need to be more consistently well-structured, and staff training in phonics instruction should be enhanced to ensure all pupils receive the support they need. Overall, Oversal Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its students.
