Castleton C of E Primary School, located in Hope Valley, Derbyshire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in all key areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school fosters a nurturing and caring environment where every pupil is treated as an individual. This family-like atmosphere is appreciated by both students and parents, with many expressing that their children feel happy, safe, and valued. The strong relationships between staff and pupils are built on mutual respect and kindness, contributing to a positive school culture.
The school has made significant strides in improving its educational offerings, particularly in reading, which is prioritized within the curriculum. A well-established phonics program has been implemented, and staff have received training to enhance their expertise in teaching reading. Regular assessments ensure that pupils grasp new sounds, and additional support is provided when necessary. Students express enthusiasm for reading, with many able to articulate their preferences and experiences with various books.
While the curriculum is broad and ambitious, it is still in the early stages of implementation. The school has identified key knowledge that pupils need to acquire from early years through Year 6, particularly in English and mathematics. However, the organization of learning in foundation subjects requires further development, especially considering the complexities of teaching mixed-age classes. Subject leadership in non-core areas has not yet been fully established, which limits oversight and evaluation of the curriculum's effectiveness in these subjects.
Staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge and generally provide clear explanations and engaging activities that facilitate learning. However, there are instances where lesson design and activities do not effectively support pupils in recalling prior knowledge or acquiring new information. The school is encouraged to establish clear expectations for lesson structure to enhance learning outcomes and retention of knowledge.
The school is committed to supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These students are identified promptly, and personalized plans are developed to ensure they receive the necessary support. This targeted assistance allows them to learn successfully alongside their peers.
Personal development initiatives are tailored to the school's context and the needs of its pupils. The school aims to build resilience and help students manage their emotions. Pupils engage with current affairs through discussions and relevant texts, fostering an understanding of diversity and the importance of celebrating individual uniqueness. Safety education is also a priority, with even the youngest pupils being taught how to navigate online challenges.
Staff support the changes implemented to improve the school and appreciate the attention given to their workload and well-being. Governors are increasingly involved in strategic decisions, providing appropriate support and challenge.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, to further enhance the curriculum, the school needs to address the organization of learning in foundation subjects, ensuring that it is logically structured to build on prior knowledge. Additionally, establishing subject leadership for these areas will enable better monitoring and evaluation of the curriculum's impact. Overall, Castleton C of E Primary School is making commendable progress, with a strong foundation for continued improvement and success.
