Scarcliffe Primary School, located in Bolsover, Derbyshire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good school following an inspection in January 2019. The headteacher demonstrates strong leadership and integrity, focusing on meeting the diverse needs of all pupils. Since his appointment, he has implemented significant improvements in teaching quality, particularly in mathematics, leading to better pupil progress. The teaching staff deliver engaging lessons that capture pupils' attention and encourage hard work. Phonics instruction is consistently effective, enabling pupils to read fluently and with enjoyment.
The early years provision is also commendable, with skilled staff providing stimulating activities that foster a love for learning. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of various subjects. Staff collaboration is strong, and they feel supported by leadership, which is mindful of their workload. Relationships within the school community are positive, fostering a sense of belonging among pupils and staff alike. The school promotes a culture of safeguarding, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported.
Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, with many recommending it to others. Attendance rates consistently exceed the national average, and pupils demonstrate good progress across year groups, preparing them well for secondary education. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in writing. While leaders are training teachers to enhance their instruction in spelling, grammar, and punctuation, there is uncertainty about the long-term impact of these efforts. Additionally, opportunities for pupils to engage in extended writing across subjects are limited, which may hinder their development in this area.
The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, with effective monitoring of teaching quality and rigorous planning for future enhancements. The curriculum is broad and balanced, enriched by extracurricular activities and community involvement. The school actively promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, ensuring they understand British values and the importance of respect and responsibility.
Governance is strong, with governors effectively holding leaders accountable and ensuring that the school meets its objectives. They regularly visit the school to gather accurate information and engage with staff and pupils. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupil safety.
In terms of outcomes, pupils' attainment in key stage one aligns with national averages, while progress in key stage two has been average overall. The school data indicates that a significant majority of pupils are currently making good progress across subjects, with many on track to achieve expected standards. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs also make strong progress, benefiting from targeted support.
The early years leader effectively oversees the provision, ensuring that children receive a solid foundation for their education. Staff are attentive to children's needs, fostering a safe and nurturing environment that encourages exploration and learning. Overall, Scarcliffe Primary School is a good school with a strong commitment to improving educational outcomes for all its pupils.
