Park House Primary School, located in Lower Pilsley, Chesterfield, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 18 and 19, 2023. The school has maintained high attendance rates, indicating that pupils enjoy their time there. Students express happiness and satisfaction with their learning environment, highlighting the kindness of teachers and the support they receive. The leadership team, including governors, has established high expectations for both academic performance and behavior, fostering a curriculum that is challenging, exciting, and relevant to prepare pupils for secondary education.
Pupils report that they learn new things daily and appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their educators. The school has a strong focus on reading, with a well-structured early reading program that ensures pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials. Staff closely monitor progress and provide support to those who may fall behind, ensuring that all pupils can achieve their potential. The curriculum is designed to promote fluency and confidence in reading, with daily story time being a highlight for many students.
In mathematics, teachers utilize effective strategies to reinforce prior learning, helping pupils to recall and apply their knowledge. The school has also implemented a new curriculum for foundation subjects, emphasizing continuity and progression from early years through to Year 6. This curriculum includes local history, allowing pupils to connect their learning with their community. For instance, pupils visit Creswell Crags to learn about the Stone Age and study the contributions of local historical figures.
While the curriculum in subjects like history is well established, there are still areas for improvement in some foundation subjects. Leaders are working to refine their curriculum plans and ensure that pupils revisit and recall their learning more frequently. This will help address any gaps in knowledge and enhance overall achievement in these subjects.
The school is proactive in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically. Personal development is also a priority, with a range of extracurricular activities available, particularly in sports and music. Pupils are encouraged to participate in school council decisions, contributing to improvements within the school community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school promotes a culture of safety, teaching pupils how to protect themselves in various contexts, including online safety and interactions with strangers.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that behavior standards are upheld. While most pupils behave well, there are instances of misbehavior during competitive sports, prompting the implementation of a new anti-bullying approach to help pupils manage their emotions.
Overall, Park House Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and supported. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on refining the curriculum and enhancing pupils' learning experiences. The school’s strong community feel, combined with its dedication to academic excellence and personal development, positions it as a good choice for families in the area.
