Cestria Primary School, located in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on December 10 and 11, 2019. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes and early years provision being rated as outstanding. The quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management were also rated as good. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in November 2018.
The curriculum at Cestria Primary School is designed to be engaging and comprehensive, allowing pupils to benefit from specialized learning in subjects such as science, technology, and food. The school organizes focus days that enable students to apply their knowledge and skills in practical contexts, enhancing their learning experience. Leaders have ensured that the foundation of pupils' education is strong in English and mathematics, with an effective mathematics curriculum in place. Pupils demonstrate high standards across various subjects, particularly in reading, where they learn to read very well.
Pupils at Cestria Primary School exhibit kindness and respect towards one another, fostering a positive environment. Relationships between staff and students are strong, contributing to a happy and confident learning atmosphere. This positive environment is reflected in the school's high attendance rates. Students enjoy a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, trips, and residential experiences, which further enrich their educational experience. They also engage with the community through musical performances and charity work.
The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. Leaders work closely with the local authority to enhance safeguarding measures and provide staff with regular updates on relevant issues. Pupils feel safe in school and report that they behave exceptionally well, with teachers promoting positive behaviour and addressing any rare incidents of bullying seriously.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Leaders have a clear vision for what they want pupils to learn, but there are some subjects where teachers' knowledge could be further developed. Additionally, assessment practices in certain areas do not always provide sufficient information to inform teachers about the next steps in pupils' learning. The school is committed to enhancing its curriculum to ensure that all pupils acquire deep knowledge and skills across all subjects.
In the early years, the school provides an excellent start for children, with staff planning activities that promote learning about the world around them. Children benefit from regular trips and visits, and specialist teachers help develop their movement skills. The curriculum is responsive to children's interests and abilities, ensuring that they are well-prepared for Year 1.
Overall, Cestria Primary School is a well-regarded institution that provides a high-quality education for its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and parents express satisfaction with the support their children receive. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, alongside its strong academic performance, positions it as a valuable educational establishment in the community.
