Byerley Park Primary School, located in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 1 and 2, 2022. The school has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing a quality education, with leaders, governors, and staff working collaboratively to ensure that pupils thrive. The school environment fosters mutual respect and shared values, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils feel happy and confident.
Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences, particularly in reading and mathematics, where significant improvements have been made. Initiatives like the 'secret reader' program have successfully engaged students in literature, while mathematics lessons are described as enjoyable, with many pupils identifying it as their favorite subject. The curriculum has been strengthened, and leaders are actively working to enhance the teaching of other subjects to ensure a well-rounded education.
The school prioritizes the mental and physical health of its pupils, offering numerous opportunities for personal development through various clubs and activities. These initiatives not only help pupils build self-confidence but also encourage them to form friendships and explore new interests. While a small number of pupils may struggle with behavior, the school has effective strategies in place to manage any disruptions, ensuring minimal impact on the overall learning environment.
Bullying is reported to be rare, and the school takes a proactive approach to address any incidents, working closely with pupils and their families to resolve issues. Pupils are educated on recognizing bullying and know how to seek help, fostering a culture of openness and support.
The inspection highlighted the high expectations set by school leaders for all pupils, particularly in reading and mathematics, where pupils are achieving well. Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) pupils receive tailored support, ensuring they have full access to the curriculum and achieve positive outcomes. Improvements have also been noted in foundation subjects like geography and history, where the curriculum is carefully sequenced to enhance learning.
However, some subjects, such as religious education and art, require further development to ensure that the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to learn are well-ordered and build on prior learning. Leaders have recognized this and have plans in place to enhance these areas.
Most subject leaders are new to their roles but are providing effective support to colleagues and improving the curriculum. Teachers are adept at identifying pupils who may be at risk of falling behind and provide timely support to help them catch up. The emphasis on reading is evident from the early years, with children learning phonics and enjoying stories from the start of Reception.
The school has established a strong foundation for personal development, with a wide range of clubs that cater to all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have SEND. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as school councillors and playground buddies, and engage in lessons that teach them about relationships and safety.
The safeguarding arrangements at Byerley Park Primary School are effective, with robust systems in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, and the curriculum equips pupils to identify risks relevant to their lives. Overall, the school is committed to continuous improvement and is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings further.
