Whitfield St James CofE Primary School in Glossop, Derbyshire, has recently undergone an inspection, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on July 18 and 19, 2023, and marked a significant improvement from its previous rating of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and feeling safe and happy. The values of wisdom, achievement, hope, friendship, thankfulness, and forgiveness are integral to the school culture, fostering a supportive environment where pupils thrive.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior and attitudes, with high expectations set by school leaders being met consistently. Attendance has improved, and instances of bullying are rare, with pupils confident that staff would address any issues promptly. The school promotes a culture of care, with older pupils taking on responsibilities to support younger students, enhancing the sense of community and mutual respect.
The quality of education is also rated as good, with a broad curriculum that allows pupils to revisit and build upon their learning. Subjects such as mathematics, science, and history are particularly well-developed, enabling pupils to gain fluency and confidence in their skills. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in design and technology and computing, where the curriculum is not as ambitious. Teachers possess good subject knowledge and effectively check pupils' learning in core subjects, although assessment practices in some foundation subjects need further development.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff fostering a love of reading through daily sessions that include a variety of texts. The phonics program is well-implemented, ensuring that pupils develop strong reading skills early on. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with tailored approaches that allow these pupils to access the same learning opportunities as their peers.
The early years provision is strong, with children in Nursery and Reception receiving excellent care and engaging in rich learning experiences that promote their development in literacy and mathematics. The curriculum is designed to nurture children's speech, communication, and personal development, preparing them well for future learning.
Leaders at the school are committed to continuous improvement, demonstrating a clear vision and moral purpose. They have successfully enhanced the school since the last inspection, and governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders. Staff express high levels of job satisfaction and feel supported in their roles, contributing to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff well-trained and aware of their responsibilities. Pupils are educated about safety, including online risks, and the school adapts its curriculum to address these important issues.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that all foundation subjects are equally ambitious and that effective assessment practices are established across the curriculum. This will enable teachers to better understand pupils' learning needs and ensure that all students are consistently challenged.
Overall, Whitfield St James CofE Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational environment where pupils are encouraged to achieve their best while feeling valued and supported. The commitment to personal development, strong leadership, and a focus on high standards contribute to the school's positive reputation within the community.
