Ofsted conducted a visit to Poppleton Road Primary School on 8 October 2020, following the government's directive for schools to fully reopen to all pupils. This visit was part of a broader initiative to assess how schools are managing the return to full education after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The visit was not an inspection, and no graded judgments were made. Instead, it focused on gathering information about the school's current situation and the measures taken since the reopening.
During the visit, discussions were held with the headteacher, Debbie Glover, and the deputy headteacher. Due to safety protocols, inspectors did not engage with pupils. The visit aimed to understand how the school was addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic and ensuring a smooth transition back to normal operations.
The school reopened to all pupils on 8 September 2020, and attendance levels were reported to be consistent with typical figures for this time of year. School leaders emphasized the importance of attendance and have actively communicated expectations to parents. They have also provided support and reassurance regarding safety measures in place to protect students and staff.
In terms of curriculum delivery, all pupils are studying their usual subjects. However, school leaders have allocated additional time for personal, social, health, and economic education, as well as physical education, to prioritize the well-being of students. This decision reflects an understanding of the importance of addressing both physical and mental health needs following the extended period of disrupted schooling.
The visit highlighted some specific areas of concern regarding pupil progress, particularly in reading and mathematics. It was noted that some pupils in Years 1 and 2 have gaps in their phonics knowledge. In response, teachers have adapted their instructional strategies to provide additional support and resources aimed at helping these pupils catch up. In mathematics, assessments indicated that pupils require more opportunities to practice their number and fluency skills. Teachers are addressing this need through daily lessons and integrating practice opportunities across other subjects.
Leaders are also considering how to maintain a broad curriculum for pupils, including plans for virtual extracurricular activities and safe off-site trips. They are preparing for the possibility of needing to implement remote education in the future, which would involve a combination of live lessons and other online resources, ensuring alignment with the curriculum being taught in school.
Overall, the visit did not reveal any significant concerns, and the information gathered will contribute to Ofsted's national reporting on the education sector's response to the pandemic. The insights gained from this visit will help inform future policy decisions. The school is actively working to address the challenges posed by the pandemic while ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education and the necessary support to thrive. The commitment of the school leaders and staff to the well-being and academic progress of their pupils is evident in their proactive approach to addressing the needs of the school community during this challenging time.
