Catterick Garrison, Le Cateau Community Primary School, located in North Yorkshire, was inspected on 28 and 29 September 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, indicating a consistent standard across various aspects of the school.
The school fosters positive relationships, respect, and teamwork, creating a supportive community where pupils feel happy and secure. Many students come from military families, contributing to a unique school culture that celebrates diversity, as evidenced by the display of national flags at the entrance. Pupils are adaptable and sociable, understanding the transient nature of their friendships due to frequent relocations. They express confidence in the support provided by staff, who are readily available to address any concerns. Incidents of bullying have reportedly decreased, with staff taking swift action when necessary.
The school has a familial atmosphere, where pastoral support aligns with high academic expectations. Pupils, regardless of their length of stay, receive equal attention and opportunities. Leaders demonstrate a strong understanding of the school's context, making informed decisions to enhance the curriculum. Subject leaders collaborate effectively with early years staff, ensuring a seamless educational experience from Nursery to Year 6. Training for staff has been implemented to help pupils retain knowledge, enabling them to articulate what they have learned and how it applies to new content.
However, some assessment procedures in foundation subjects require refinement to ensure teachers can accurately gauge pupil understanding. This gap may risk pupils missing essential knowledge. In early years, children engage in singing, rhymes, and storytelling, preparing them well for their transition to Reception Year. Phonics sessions are tailored to match pupils' reading abilities, although not all pupils receive appropriately leveled reading materials, which can hinder their fluency and enjoyment in reading.
The curriculum is designed to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff quickly identify those who require additional assistance and collaborate with the special educational needs coordinator to adapt the curriculum accordingly. Pupils benefit from tailored support, whether in-class or through targeted interventions. The school has partnered with the Ministry of Defence on a SEND garrison project to enhance staff training, which has positively impacted pupils.
Pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs can access the Retreat room, where they learn strategies to manage their behavior, leading to improved classroom engagement. Leaders are committed to preparing pupils for life beyond school, considering their diverse backgrounds and experiences. The school’s service champion ensures that staff are well-informed about pupils' needs upon entry, and parents feel supported. Enrichment opportunities, such as trips and special events, further enhance the educational experience.
Governors play a crucial role in supporting and holding school leaders accountable, ensuring high standards in recruitment and performance monitoring. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders working closely with local authorities to maintain rigorous procedures. Staff training equips them to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns appropriately. The personal, social, and health education curriculum educates pupils about safeguarding risks, both online and offline.
In summary, Catterick Garrison, Le Cateau Community Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and reading resources, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
