Killingholme Primary School, located in South Killingholme, North Lincolnshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 4, 2024. The school is characterized by its inclusive and caring environment, where high expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has successfully emphasized the importance of regular attendance, with pupils understanding that being present every day enhances their learning experience. The students express enjoyment in attending school, eager to discover new knowledge and engage with their peers. Their positive attitude towards learning is evident in their behavior both in the classroom and during outdoor activities, where they display politeness and courtesy.
The school fosters leadership skills among pupils through various initiatives. For instance, playtime buddies assist younger students during breaks, helping them engage with new equipment and games. Pupils take pride in showcasing their skills, such as different skipping techniques, and subject ambassadors actively promote their roles in supporting learning. Participation in sports clubs and competitions is encouraged, and assemblies serve as a platform to celebrate both academic and extracurricular achievements.
Killingholme Primary School has developed a new and ambitious curriculum, now in its second year of implementation. School leaders have clearly defined the skills and knowledge that pupils need to acquire as they progress. The curriculum builds on early years learning, with pupils creating concept maps to connect prior knowledge with new topics. This approach promotes independence in learning. Teachers effectively adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of pupils with SEND, breaking down learning into manageable steps and providing high-quality resources tailored to individual needs. They demonstrate confidence in their subject knowledge and address misconceptions promptly, ensuring that gaps in understanding are quickly identified and addressed.
In the early years, children engage in enjoyable activities such as songs, rhymes, and poems, which prepare them for phonics instruction in Reception. The school has made significant efforts to foster a love of reading, with most pupils actively choosing books that interest them. The renewed focus on phonics has led to improved teaching practices, with staff trained to deliver the phonics program effectively. While many pupils read books suited to their reading level, there are areas for improvement, particularly in responding to pronunciation errors and ensuring consistent use of decoding strategies.
The school encourages discussions and debates in the classroom, promoting attentive listening and thoughtful responses among pupils. They learn about various faiths and cultures, although the school recognizes the need to enhance pupils' knowledge in this area. Recent staffing changes have prompted leaders to consider the impact on staff workload and decision-making. The school has prioritized high standards in English and mathematics, resulting in improved outcomes for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged.
The safeguarding arrangements at Killingholme Primary School are effective, with established processes ensuring pupil safety. Staff are trained in safeguarding procedures, and there is a culture of openness regarding concerns. However, the school must enhance opportunities for staff to reflect on their training and its application in the school context. To further improve, leaders should regularly evaluate the impact of their development actions on pupil learning and provide consistent opportunities for staff to discuss safeguarding practices. Overall, Killingholme Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
