Westlea Primary School, located in Seaham, County Durham, has received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on November 30 and December 1, 2022. The school has been rated as good overall, with outstanding ratings in leadership and management as well as early years provision. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and personal development have all been rated as good. This marks an improvement from the previous inspection in October 2017, where the school was also rated good.
Pupils at Westlea Primary School thrive in a supportive and welcoming environment. They express feelings of safety and enjoyment in their learning experiences, attributing their success to the dedicated staff who encourage them to perform at their best. The school promotes a culture of responsibility, with pupils engaging in various roles such as school councillors and playground leaders. Participation in clubs and sporting events is encouraged, fostering teamwork and collaboration among students.
The leadership team at Westlea Primary School is committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed in their educational journey. This vision is shared by all staff members, who are focused on continuously improving the curriculum and the support provided to students. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, allowing them to keep pace with their peers and fully engage in school life.
High expectations for pupil behavior are evident throughout the school. Classrooms and play areas are calm and orderly, creating an environment conducive to learning. Pupils feel comfortable approaching staff with any concerns, and incidents of bullying are addressed promptly by the school. Staff members play a crucial role in helping pupils manage their emotions and resolve conflicts, with additional support available in the Rainbow Room.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with children in Nursery and Reception classes enjoying a broad curriculum filled with engaging activities. Staff are skilled in facilitating learning through play, and parents have expressed their satisfaction with the support their children receive.
Leadership at all levels is exceptional, with governors and senior leaders ensuring that staff receive high-quality training. This has resulted in knowledgeable staff who are proud to work at the school and share a common goal of pupil success. The curriculum is broad and well-sequenced, with pupils demonstrating enthusiasm for subjects such as Spanish and music. Regular assessments allow leaders to monitor educational quality and implement necessary improvements.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a structured phonics program in place. Children in the Nursery class are introduced to stories and vocabulary, preparing them for phonics lessons in Reception. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, building pupils' knowledge over time and encouraging them to apply their learning to various problems.
Leaders are dedicated to removing barriers to pupil success, resulting in high attendance rates. Effective behavior systems are in place, teaching pupils about mental health and behavior management. Opportunities for personal responsibility are abundant, with pupils engaging in various extracurricular activities that promote understanding of diverse cultures and modern society.
In summary, Westlea Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and personally. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement, strong leadership, and supportive community relationships contribute to its overall success. The recent inspection highlights the school's strengths while also identifying areas for further development, particularly in enhancing pupils' understanding of historical concepts.
