St Helens Primary School, located in Ryde on the Isle of Wight, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on October 10 and 11, 2023. The school was rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision, with personal development being rated as outstanding. This reflects the school's commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils.
Pupils at St Helens Primary School arrive eager to learn and display politeness and cheerfulness towards staff and peers. Parents appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community fostered within the school. The school maintains effective communication with families through its website and regular meetings, ensuring that parents feel informed and involved in their children's education.
The relationships among pupils of different ages are strong, with older students helping younger ones, fostering kindness and care. Weekly reading groups enhance these connections, allowing pupils to share books and develop friendships while cultivating a love for reading. The school has high expectations for behaviour, and pupils consistently meet these standards, demonstrating respect and a willingness to learn. They are taught about safety and know whom to approach for help with any issues.
St Helens Primary School actively engages with the local community, participating in events such as the Isle of Wight's Mardi Gras, where pupils proudly represent their school. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for future educational stages, with clear processes in place to support those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school emphasizes personal development and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including skateboarding, computing, and seasonal sports, catering for diverse interests.
The teaching staff effectively link classroom learning with real-world experiences, as seen in trips to Osborne House and local beaches, which enhance historical and environmental education. In lessons, pupils engage in discussions about current issues and moral dilemmas, learning to express their views respectfully. The use of floor books in personal, social, and health education allows pupils to reflect on their learning and revisit previous topics.
Reading instruction begins in Reception with a phonics-based approach, and pupils benefit from structured reading routines that include songs and rhymes. The school provides resources that match the sounds pupils are learning, ensuring that those who need extra help receive it. In mathematics and other subjects, pupils have access to various resources that support their learning, although there are instances where tasks lack clear learning outcomes, affecting some pupils' participation and progress.
Teachers employ various methods to reinforce learning, but there are occasions when misconceptions are not adequately addressed, leading to gaps in knowledge. The governing body is aware of its responsibilities and supports school leaders while monitoring staff wellbeing. Overall, the school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing assessment practices to better identify gaps in pupils' learning and ensure that teaching activities are accessible to all students. By refining these areas, St Helens Primary School can continue to build on its strengths and provide an excellent educational experience for its pupils.
