Witton Gilbert Primary School, located in Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 28 and 29, 2022. The school is committed to fostering an appreciation for the environment among its pupils, encouraging outdoor exploration and play. Each class maintains a gardening bed, and students actively participate in gardening and eco clubs. The leadership team sets high expectations for learning, ensuring that practical experiences complement classroom instruction. Inclusivity is a core value, with effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, allowing them to engage fully in school life. The school promotes resilience, encouraging pupils to embrace challenges and learn from mistakes, with older students benefiting from residential trips that push their boundaries.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students feeling cared for and supported by their teachers. The school teaches conflict resolution skills, and while bullying is reported as rare, some students feel inconsistencies in how bullying is addressed by staff. The school prioritizes reading, providing ongoing training for staff to enhance their teaching methods. Pupils who struggle with reading receive prompt support, and storytelling is used to celebrate diversity and broaden experiences.
In recent years, the curriculum has been redesigned to ensure high-quality subject delivery, with a focus on progressive knowledge building. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in revisiting key knowledge across subjects to reinforce learning. The school has created an inclusive environment where adaptations are made for pupils with SEND, and teachers employ clear explanations and effective questioning to enhance understanding. While some subjects see effective checks on pupil understanding, others do not, indicating a need for consistency.
Pupils demonstrate cooperation and respect for one another, with even the youngest children showing a willingness to help. They engage actively in lessons and display courteous behavior towards visitors. The early years program encourages independence through established routines and high expectations, fostering confidence in problem-solving.
The school emphasizes community engagement, with pupils participating in local events and applying for roles within the school to develop responsibility. A wide range of experiences is provided, including visits to cultural institutions and learning opportunities such as clarinet lessons for Year 4 and Year 5 students. The school values holistic development, prioritizing mental health and emotional management, ensuring pupils have someone to talk to and understand the importance of tolerance and respect.
Staff members feel supported and valued, with leaders attentive to their well-being. Parents appreciate the supportive nature of the staff, particularly in assisting pupils with SEND. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff vigilant in recognizing and reporting concerns. Pupils are educated on safety, both in the community and online, and leaders take prompt action to protect vulnerable students, collaborating with external agencies when necessary.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to implement robust systems for revisiting key knowledge to aid long-term retention and understanding. Teachers should regularly check pupil comprehension to identify and address gaps in knowledge swiftly. Overall, Witton Gilbert Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with a strong commitment to the development of its pupils both academically and personally.
