Wheatcroft Community Primary School in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on December 5 and 6, 2023. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and happy, supported by effective pastoral care. The staff are well-acquainted with the students, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the school’s motto of Learn and Care. The quality of education is high, with a broad and balanced curriculum that enables pupils to make good progress. The early years provision is particularly strong, with an ambitious curriculum that supports emotional and academic development, preparing children for a confident transition to Year 1.
The school emphasizes a positive learning environment, focusing on strong relationships and effective communication. Most pupils exhibit good behavior, showing politeness and courtesy. Instances of bullying and discrimination are rare, and the school actively promotes important values through assemblies and recognition of positive behavior. Beyond academics, pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, including sports and music, and benefit from unique learning experiences such as Beach School lessons, which enhance their education in the seaside location.
While the school has made significant improvements, there are areas for further development. The curriculum is ambitious, and leaders have set high expectations for pupil achievement. However, the assessment of pupils' understanding is not fully developed, and leaders lack a precise understanding of the curriculum's effectiveness. Some pupils with special educational needs and disabilities do not have well-matched subject-specific targets. The school has high expectations for attendance and punctuality, but persistent absence rates remain a concern, although efforts are being made to address this issue.
The behavior and relationships policy implemented by the school promotes positive language and clear expectations. Staff effectively manage low-level disruptions, and pupils appreciate the opportunity to reflect on their choices in a supportive environment. However, the school does not fully utilize behavior incident data to evaluate the impact of its actions. The curriculum also includes health education, with pupils learning about healthy eating, mental health, and safe relationships.
Leadership at Wheatcroft School is committed to continuous improvement. Governors are knowledgeable and supportive, contributing to the school’s development. Staff express pride in their work environment, appreciating the consideration given to their workload. Parents are highly complimentary, recognizing the caring atmosphere that supports their children's growth. Despite the positive feedback, the school needs to enhance its monitoring and evaluation strategies, particularly for pupils with special educational needs. Additionally, assessment practices across the curriculum require further development to ensure they align with educational goals and inform teaching effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection highlighted the importance of ongoing improvements in various areas, including assessment and understanding the impact of the curriculum. Overall, Wheatcroft Community Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
