Wingate Primary School, located in County Durham, was inspected on January 17 and 18, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has undergone significant changes since its last inspection ten years ago, when it was rated Outstanding. The merger of Wingate Infant School and Wingate Junior School in 2018 marked a pivotal moment in its history, and the subsequent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced its development. Despite these hurdles, the leadership has effectively managed the transition, fostering a consistent experience for pupils across both sites.
The school promotes a strong ethos centered around the rights of children, with pupils actively engaged in understanding and advocating for their rights. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. Incidents of bullying are rare and well-managed, contributing to a safe environment where pupils feel secure. Staff expectations for behavior and effort are high, and most pupils respond positively, although some struggle with understanding subject-specific vocabulary, which can occasionally hinder their engagement in lessons.
The curriculum at Wingate Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in key stage two, with notable strengths in music education. Subject leaders provide effective support to teachers, enabling them to deliver engaging lessons that build knowledge over time. However, some subject leaders require further training to enhance their curriculum development skills. The school prioritizes vocabulary development, encouraging pupils to articulate their learning effectively. Nonetheless, there are instances where teachers do not adequately check pupils' understanding of vocabulary, leading to gaps in comprehension.
Approximately a quarter of the pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities, and they receive appropriate support to ensure their full inclusion in school life. Reading instruction is a strong point, with a new early reading curriculum in place that has been well-received. Staff are trained in phonics and provide timely interventions for pupils who fall behind, fostering a love for reading among students.
The early years provision is well-planned, with a focus on building strong relationships and settling children into routines. This foundation prepares them well for their transition into Year 1. Pupils generally exhibit good behavior, with leaders addressing any disruptions swiftly. The school emphasizes personal development, promoting values aligned with being a UNICEF Rights Respecting School, which supports pupils' social and moral growth.
Engagement with parents, staff, and pupils is a priority for school leaders, who consider their feedback in decision-making processes. Staff appreciate opportunities for professional development, although some new subject leaders have not yet received adequate training to support their roles effectively.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with well-trained staff who recognize signs of potential harm and respond appropriately. The school collaborates with families and external agencies to provide necessary support for vulnerable pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance the consistency of assessment practices among teachers, ensuring that misconceptions are fully addressed before moving on to new content. Additionally, all teachers should verify that pupils have a solid understanding of the vocabulary used in lessons. Providing targeted professional development for new subject leaders will also be essential for their growth and effectiveness in their roles. Overall, Wingate Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
