Dinting Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School in Glossop, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 2, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who embody the motto of loving their neighbors. The atmosphere is characterized by a familial sense of belonging, where respect and happiness are prevalent. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which is consistently met, resulting in a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues would be addressed promptly by staff.
The school places a significant emphasis on personal development, with leaders prioritizing pastoral care. Staff work diligently to nurture pupils into confident and resilient individuals, providing meaningful opportunities that contribute to their growth. Older pupils take pride in mentoring younger ones, and the diverse experiences offered, such as the ‘Starbooks’ event, are well-received and appreciated by the students. Parents and carers express overwhelming positivity towards the school, highlighting the dedication of the staff and the supportive community.
The curriculum at Dinting is broad and ambitious, with leaders having developed comprehensive plans in most subjects. These plans clearly outline the knowledge pupils need to acquire and the sequence in which it should be learned. Subjects like mathematics, computing, and physical education are particularly well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their learning effectively. However, some areas, such as geography and art, require further development to ensure they meet the same ambitious standards. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and regularly assess pupil learning, enabling them to revisit and reinforce key topics.
Reading is a priority across the school, with pupils starting their reading journey in Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics and employ consistent techniques to help pupils become fluent readers. Regular assessments ensure that those who struggle receive the necessary support, and parents are provided with guidance to assist their children at home. Daily reading activities foster a love for literature among pupils.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with staff skilled in identifying and addressing their diverse needs. The personal development opportunities provided prepare pupils for life in modern Britain, teaching them about diversity, equality, and respect. Health education is also emphasized, covering the importance of physical activity, balanced diets, and sleep. The school’s PSHE curriculum is thoughtfully designed to address local risks and includes age-appropriate relationships and sex education.
Leadership at Dinting is characterized by a strong moral purpose, with governors actively supporting and challenging leaders. They are well-informed about the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, and they prioritize the well-being of staff. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils' safety and welfare are paramount. Staff are well-trained and aware of their responsibilities, and the school collaborates with external agencies when necessary.
While the school is performing well, there is a need for improvement in the development of certain subject curriculums to ensure all areas are equally ambitious. This will enable pupils to build their knowledge over time and achieve their full potential across all subjects. Overall, Dinting Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
