Peases West Primary School, located in Billy Row, Crook, County Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 18, 2023. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where pupils take pride in their learning and demonstrate a commitment to their education. The staff at Peases West work diligently to provide a broad and engaging curriculum that captivates students, fostering an environment where they are eager to learn and participate actively in lessons.
Pupils exhibit focus during class and display friendliness and respect during social interactions. They feel secure in their environment, knowing that any instances of bullying are promptly addressed by the staff. The school promotes a culture of openness, encouraging students to communicate their concerns to adults, which contributes to their overall happiness and sense of safety at school.
The leadership team at Peases West ensures that a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities is available, particularly in sports, which enhances the pupils' experiences. Students are also given a voice in school matters, participating as ambassadors or engaging in governor monitoring activities. The school is notably inclusive, catering for the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students are integrated into the school community.
Reading is prioritized across the school, starting from the early years, where staff utilize their expertise to enhance children's language and communication skills. The implementation of a phonics program has proven effective, allowing all pupils to achieve success in reading. Staff are well-trained to support those who may struggle, ensuring that they can catch up with their peers. The school provides a rich selection of literature, which students passionately discuss, contributing to their development as confident readers by the end of key stage two.
In mathematics, the curriculum is well-structured, with a strong foundation laid in the early years. Teachers effectively model mathematical vocabulary, enabling students to articulate their understanding of numbers confidently. The leadership team is actively working on revising the wider curriculum to make it more ambitious, ensuring that learning builds logically from early years through to Year six. They recognize the importance of developing the skills of middle leaders to support this ongoing curriculum journey.
Teachers at Peases West demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ various assessment methods to gauge pupil understanding. Students appreciate the additional support they receive, fostering a positive learning environment where they feel comfortable seeking help when needed. The school has established effective systems to identify and support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.
The school environment is warm and supportive, with routines established to help children adapt to school life. Disruptions to learning are rare, and leaders ensure that pupils who require additional behavioral support receive the necessary assistance. Peases West prepares students well for life in modern Britain, teaching them about fundamental British values and promoting understanding of diversity and health.
Staff value the training and support provided by leaders, which is aligned with the school's priorities. Governors are actively involved, using their expertise to support and hold leaders accountable for the quality of education. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure in their learning environment. Overall, Peases West Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all its students.
