Belton All Saints CofE Primary School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 19th and 20th of September 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting a consistent standard of education and care provided to its pupils. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, as well as early years provision, all received a good rating, indicating a well-rounded and effective educational environment.
Pupils at Belton All Saints feel safe and well cared for, with strong relationships established between staff and students. The school emphasizes the importance of having trusted adults and friends available for pupils to approach with any concerns. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the school, noting that their children are happy and thriving. The positive atmosphere is further enhanced by the high expectations set by leaders regarding pupil behaviour, resulting in a respectful and focused learning environment.
The school’s approach to personal development is commendable, offering a variety of opportunities for pupils to engage with the wider community. Activities such as badminton, chess, street dance, and a healthy eating club are well-received by students, who appreciate the chance to explore different interests outside of the classroom. The early years provision is particularly strong, with children quickly adapting to routines and developing independence skills. Staff effectively support language development and social skills, fostering a nurturing environment for young learners.
Belton All Saints has made significant strides in improving its curriculum, ensuring that pupils build knowledge over time in most subjects. The curriculum is designed to reinforce previous learning, particularly in subjects like art, where careful consideration is given to the knowledge acquired in each year group. However, there are areas within the foundation curriculum where this approach is not yet fully embedded, leading to gaps in pupils’ understanding and connections between different subjects.
Reading is a focal point of the school’s educational strategy, beginning in the early years with a strong emphasis on stories, songs, and rhymes. This love for reading is nurtured throughout the school, with pupils having access to a diverse range of books and daily reading sessions led by adults. The phonics program introduced in Reception lays a solid foundation for literacy, and additional support is provided for those at risk of falling behind, ensuring that all pupils can engage with challenging texts.
Teachers at Belton All Saints demonstrate good subject knowledge, delivering lessons effectively and making necessary adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. This inclusive approach allows all students to work alongside their peers while meeting their individual targets. Subject leaders are committed to maintaining their knowledge to support their colleagues effectively.
Pupils are encouraged to take on active roles within the school community, participating in various initiatives such as school councils and fundraising events. They are educated on internet safety and engage in enterprise projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The local governing body plays a role in the school’s governance, but there is a need for more rigorous checks to ensure they have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Staff at Belton All Saints express pride in their work environment, highlighting the support and care provided by school leaders. Professional development opportunities are prioritized, and staff well-being is taken seriously, contributing to a positive workplace culture.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, there are areas identified for improvement, particularly regarding the governors’ monitoring practices and the clarity of essential knowledge in certain subjects. Addressing these areas will further enhance the educational experience for pupils and ensure that the school continues to meet the needs of its community effectively. Overall, Belton All Saints CofE Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils.
