Heage Primary School, located in Belper, Derbyshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on December 7 and 8, 2021. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Students express appreciation for their teachers, describing them as kind and fair. The school has effective systems in place to address bullying, ensuring that every pupil knows whom to approach if they feel threatened. The pupils enjoy their learning experiences, engaging with a diverse range of subjects and demonstrating a strong work ethic in lessons. They listen attentively to their teachers and collaborate well with their classmates, fostering a respectful atmosphere for sharing ideas and opinions.
Behaviour at Heage Primary School is commendable, with teachers setting clear expectations that pupils adhere to from the early years. Each class establishes a behaviour charter that pupils sign, reinforcing their commitment to following the rules. While most pupils exhibit good behaviour, a small number may struggle, but the school provides necessary support to help them succeed. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. It is structured to build on prior knowledge, promoting resilience and aspiration among students. However, the implementation of new curriculum plans in some foundation subjects is still in its early stages.
Teachers are well-equipped to explain new concepts and ensure that pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support. In core subjects like English and mathematics, teachers assess pupils' retention of knowledge, allowing them to identify those who may require additional assistance. However, there is a lack of a consistent assessment approach in foundation subjects, which hinders teachers' ability to identify gaps in pupils' learning.
Reading is a priority at Heage Primary School, with early years pupils learning phonics from the outset. Staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge in phonics instruction, providing pupils with books that align with their phonetic understanding. The school emphasizes vocabulary development, and teachers actively engage pupils in discussions about new words. As a result, pupils exhibit enthusiasm and confidence in their reading abilities, even those who face challenges.
The school has worked diligently to maintain a sense of community during the pandemic, organizing virtual assemblies to celebrate achievements and showcase learning. Pupils have numerous opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as being lunchtime helpers or mini sports leaders. Outdoor learning is encouraged across all year groups, with activities ranging from woodland visits in early years to annual residential trips for older pupils.
Governors and staff take pride in their school, viewing themselves as a cohesive team. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and closely monitor the impact of the school development plan. The safeguarding arrangements at Heage Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns. The curriculum also includes lessons on personal safety, ensuring pupils are equipped to protect themselves both in and out of school.
To further improve, the school needs to monitor the impact of newly implemented curriculum plans to ensure pupils are retaining key knowledge. A consistent assessment approach for foundation subjects should be developed to help teachers identify what pupils remember. Additionally, subject leaders require training and time to effectively lead their subjects. Overall, Heage Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
