St Stephen’s Tockholes Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by the inspection conducted on 21 October 2021. The school provides a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and happy, fostering a strong sense of community. Students express enjoyment in their education and appreciate the supportive atmosphere created by both staff and peers. They value the recognition they receive for their achievements, and instances of misbehavior are infrequent, thanks to the high expectations set by teachers regarding behavior in the classroom.
The school has effectively addressed issues related to bullying, with pupils demonstrating an understanding of what constitutes bullying and how it affects individuals. They report that any incidents are dealt with promptly by teachers, ensuring a safe learning environment. The resumption of extracurricular activities post-COVID-19 has been met with enthusiasm, as pupils look forward to participating in educational visits and events that enrich their learning experiences.
Leadership at the school is committed to providing an ambitious curriculum that aligns with the school’s core values, including spirituality, resilience, and respect for the environment. The curriculum is well-structured to accommodate mixed-age classes, ensuring that all pupils can learn effectively. Teachers are knowledgeable in their subjects and provide the necessary support for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Overall, pupils achieve well across various subjects, including mathematics and English.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some teaching methods used to introduce new concepts may not always be the most effective, and occasionally, certain subject-specific content outlined in the curriculum is overlooked. This can lead to gaps in pupils’ knowledge in specific areas. To enhance the depth of understanding across subjects, it is essential for leaders to ensure that teachers adhere closely to the curriculum plans.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a well-structured phonics program that begins in the Reception Year. Teachers consistently match reading materials to the abilities of the pupils, ensuring that all students, including those who may struggle, receive the support they need to improve their reading skills. By the end of Year Six, pupils are well-prepared for the challenges of secondary education.
In the early years, the curriculum is designed to promote the development of essential skills such as mathematics, reading, writing, and vocabulary. Staff are attentive to the needs of children, creating a nurturing environment that encourages learning and personal growth. Pupils with special educational needs are integrated into the same curriculum as their peers, receiving tailored support to help them thrive.
The school’s commitment to developing the whole child is evident in its approach to teaching values and respect for diversity. Pupils learn about different cultures and religions, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Staff members are dedicated to maintaining high standards of behavior, and pupils generally exhibit excellent conduct both in class and during social interactions.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school community is well-informed about the importance of safeguarding, and pupils are educated on how to protect themselves in various situations, including online safety.
In summary, St Stephen’s Tockholes Church of England Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation, the overall quality of education and care provided is commendable.
