Stretton Handley Church of England Primary School is a vibrant and welcoming institution that embodies a caring ethos. The school’s Christian values are reflected in its motto, Growing, caring and learning together, which resonates throughout the school community. Parents, carers, and pupils express pride in their school, often highlighting the dedication of the staff who foster an environment where children can thrive. High expectations set by the leadership contribute to the well-being and development of the pupils, who report feeling happy and safe. The behavior of the students is commendable, both in lessons and during other school activities, with a strong consensus that bullying is not an issue.
The school offers a diverse range of extra-curricular clubs and activities, including singing, arts and crafts, nature, cooking, gardening, and various sports. Older pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving on school and church councils, acting as playground buddies, and participating in the enterprise team, which helps them develop leadership and social skills.
The curriculum at Stretton Handley is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully considered the context of the school, which operates with mixed-age classes. They ensure that younger children receive a curriculum appropriate for their age and developmental stage, preventing any disadvantage from being in a class with older peers.
Recent changes in leadership and staffing have prompted a significant restructuring of the curriculum, particularly in response to increasing pupil numbers and the establishment of a third class. While this work is ongoing, it is essential for leaders to ensure that the curriculum is fully mapped out across all subjects to support effective learning.
Reading is a priority at the school, with efforts made to instill a love of books among pupils. The school library has been revitalized, and staff encourage students to read widely. Early readers receive effective support, using books that align with their phonetic knowledge, which helps them become fluent and confident readers.
Mathematics instruction follows a logical sequence, allowing pupils to grasp key concepts before tackling more complex tasks. Teachers are adept at identifying misunderstandings promptly, fostering a positive attitude towards mathematics among students.
Assessment practices are robust, with teachers regularly checking pupils' understanding and using this information to provide additional support where necessary. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils with special educational needs, collaborating with parents and external agencies to ensure these students receive the necessary support to access the full curriculum.
The school promotes the wider development of pupils through a well-structured personal, social, and health education curriculum. This curriculum fosters respect for cultural diversity, exemplified by participation in community events such as the Derby multi-faith walk. Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
Staff members feel valued and supported, appreciating the leadership's consideration of their well-being and workload. The governing body shares the vision for the school and fulfills its responsibilities diligently, prioritizing the best interests of the pupils.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of responsibility among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff are well-informed about safeguarding procedures, enabling them to identify and address concerns swiftly. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including internet safety, equipping them with the knowledge to protect themselves and others from harm.
In summary, Stretton Handley Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, a well-structured curriculum, and a commitment to the personal development of all pupils. The ongoing work to enhance the curriculum delivery will further strengthen the school's educational offerings.
