Cotherstone Primary School, located in Barnard Castle, County Durham, was inspected on 28 and 29 February 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a strong educational environment for its pupils. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all assessed as good. This inspection marked the first graded evaluation since the school was last inspected 11 years ago, when it received an outstanding rating.
Pupils at Cotherstone Primary School enjoy their time at school, benefiting from a small and welcoming community atmosphere. The school fosters a nurturing environment that encourages pupils to believe in themselves and aspire to achieve their best. Staff members are well-acquainted with the pupils, contributing to a positive and respectful school culture. The curriculum is designed to be relevant to the interests of the pupils, with a particular emphasis on nature, which resonates with many students. This relevance helps to engage pupils and fosters enthusiasm for learning.
Teachers at the school maintain high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils exhibit excellent behaviour during lessons, and teachers frequently acknowledge their achievements, which motivates them further. While pupils demonstrate strong reading and writing skills, there is a noted need for improvement in their mathematical understanding.
The school effectively supports the personal development of its pupils, ensuring they feel safe and understand the importance of celebrating diversity. Pupils have opportunities to learn from various visiting speakers, which enriches their educational experience. Educational visits and experiences are also integral to the curriculum, enhancing pupils' understanding of the subjects they study.
Cotherstone Primary School has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that equips pupils with a rich body of knowledge and skills. Leaders have carefully considered the essential knowledge that pupils should retain, planning opportunities for them to revisit this knowledge over time. The curriculum is inclusive, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND. Regular reviews of support plans for these pupils ensure that their individual needs are met.
The teaching of reading is a priority at the school, with staff receiving the necessary training to deliver the reading curriculum effectively. Pupils are quickly identified and supported if they struggle to keep up, leading to the development of confident and fluent readers by the end of key stage two. In the early years, children are well-prepared to learn to read through engaging activities that promote letter and sound recognition.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with established routines that pupils follow diligently. They are eager to participate in lessons and enjoy social interactions during breaks. Older pupils take on leadership roles, acting as role models for younger students, which fosters a sense of community and responsibility.
Governors are committed to the school's success, possessing a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. Staff members take pride in their work and appreciate the training opportunities provided. Parents and carers express strong support for the school, valuing the quality of communication and care their children receive.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of the new mathematics curriculum, which is still in its early stages. The school must ensure that teachers consistently check pupils' knowledge and understanding to address any misconceptions effectively. Overall, Cotherstone Primary School provides a solid educational foundation for its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
