Silverhill Primary School, located in Mickleover, Derby, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as good during the inspection conducted on October 15-16, 2019. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with particular strengths in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development, both of which were rated as outstanding. The leadership and management, along with early years provision, were also rated as good, indicating a well-rounded approach to education.
The school prides itself on valuing each pupil as an individual, fostering an environment where students feel safe, respected, and happy. The school's SPIRIT values, which emphasize strength, respect, and teamwork, are embraced by the entire school community. Pupils express a genuine love for attending school, with many stating they feel disappointed when unable to attend due to illness. The staff's dedication to understanding and caring for the pupils is evident, and parents appreciate the nurturing environment, highlighting the school's role in helping children embrace their identities.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, characterized by politeness, friendliness, and respect for one another. The school has effectively addressed concerns about bullying, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported. The range of extracurricular activities available, including sports clubs and music lessons, provides students with opportunities to explore new interests and develop their skills. Educational trips to places like London and the national space center further enrich the learning experience.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn and when. Pupils engage with exciting topics that build essential knowledge, which they apply in creative ways. For instance, Year 6 students created video logs about World War Two, demonstrating their ability to connect historical knowledge with modern technology. The school has made significant improvements to the curriculum across most subjects, although leaders acknowledge the need for ongoing evaluation to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
Reading is a particular strength, with a robust phonics program in place that supports early learners. Children in the early years make excellent progress in phonics, which continues through key stage one. The school emphasizes the importance of reading comprehension, with teachers providing targeted support to help pupils understand complex vocabulary. Initiatives like Drop Everything and Read sessions encourage a love of reading, and pupils report enjoying a diverse range of literature.
In mathematics, lessons are designed to build on prior knowledge, and teachers demonstrate strong subject expertise. They effectively check for understanding and retention of information, resulting in high-quality work from pupils. Support for students with special educational needs and disabilities is commendable, with tailored assistance ensuring these pupils can access the same knowledge as their peers.
The early years staff foster positive relationships with children, promoting curiosity and independence. Outdoor learning opportunities, such as building obstacle courses, enhance the children's educational experience. High expectations for behavior are maintained throughout the school, with no low-level disruptions observed during lessons.
Pupils' personal development is outstanding, as they learn about diverse cultures and faiths, engage in discussions about current issues, and participate in community support initiatives. The leadership team is effective, ensuring manageable workloads for staff and providing support for new leaders. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring pupils' well-being is prioritized. Overall, Silverhill Primary School is a thriving educational environment that successfully nurtures and develops its pupils.
