Edmondsley Primary School, located in Durham, was inspected on 15-16 October 2019. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with similar ratings in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. However, early years provision was noted to require improvement. The school had previously received an outstanding rating in its last inspection in February 2009.
Pupils at Edmondsley Primary School enjoy their time at school, feeling happy and safe due to the supportive environment created by the staff. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the diverse opportunities provided for their children’s learning and the approachability of the staff. The leadership team, including governors and staff, is committed to ensuring that pupils receive a high-quality education, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics. While these core subjects are well-taught, there is recognition that other subjects, such as science, history, and geography, require further development in terms of planning and delivery.
Behaviour among pupils is generally good, both in lessons and during playtimes. Incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that staff will address any concerns they may have. The nurturing approach of the staff supports all pupils, including those who require additional help. Outdoor learning is emphasized, allowing pupils to engage in cooperative activities and investigations, which enhances their learning experiences.
The school has effective plans for teaching core subjects, and pupils achieve well in reading, writing, and mathematics. Staff are adept at adapting their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, leaders are currently reviewing the planning for other subjects to improve the sequencing of knowledge and skills. There is a clear understanding that improvements are needed in the curriculum for subjects like science, history, and geography.
In the early years, staff provide a supportive environment for children, who settle well into Nursery and develop appropriate social skills. While phonics and early mathematics teaching are generally effective, there is a need for better planning of independent activities. The physical environment for early years learning requires enhancement to support effective curriculum delivery.
Safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns. The school prioritizes pupil safety and well-being, ensuring that appropriate checks are in place for staff and volunteers. Leaders are also working to enhance understanding of e-safety among pupils and parents.
To improve further, the school is focusing on refining curriculum planning in certain subjects and enhancing early years provision. The acting headteacher is leading efforts to secure necessary improvements, supported by local authority training and partnerships with other schools. The leadership team is aware of the need to develop new leaders and ensure they are equipped to drive improvements in their areas of responsibility.
Overall, Edmondsley Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a good education for its pupils, with a strong focus on their well-being and development. The school is actively working on areas for improvement, particularly in the early years and certain subjects, to ensure that all pupils receive a high-quality education that meets their needs.
