Sicklinghall Community Primary School, located in Wetherby, North Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 22nd and 23rd of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving a good rating. Notably, the personal development aspect of the school has been recognized as outstanding. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school was established under the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at Sicklinghall Community Primary School demonstrate the core values of resilience, kindness, and respect. The school promotes a vision of working together to achieve the best possible outcomes, which is evident in the positive attitudes displayed by both pupils and staff. The school environment fosters happiness, curiosity, and friendliness among students, who feel safe and supported. Parents echo this sentiment, expressing confidence in the school's commitment to safeguarding their children. The leadership team has established high expectations for behaviour and achievement, which are reflected in the positive learning atmosphere. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well and exhibit commendable behaviour.
The school has implemented a well-structured curriculum, particularly in the Reception class, where children benefit from a carefully planned and sequenced educational experience. Accurate assessments enable staff to tailor their teaching to meet individual needs, promoting high-quality interactions and fostering independence and resilience among students. The bespoke subject curriculums developed by leaders are comprehensive and well-planned, ensuring that pupils of all abilities can succeed, especially in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science.
While the school excels in many areas, there are a few foundation subjects where the curriculum is not as fully established, leading to variability in pupils' knowledge and skills across different subjects. The school is aware of this and is working to ensure that all subjects are implemented consistently to enhance pupils' learning experiences.
The phonics programme is delivered consistently, allowing children to develop strong phonics knowledge from an early age, which contributes to their progress as confident readers. Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with high-quality texts forming an integral part of the curriculum. Attendance rates are high, and the school actively promotes good attendance and punctuality, resulting in low levels of persistent absence.
The personal development curriculum is exceptional, providing pupils with a wide range of experiences that enhance their understanding of citizenship in modern Britain. Opportunities for pupils to engage with diverse communities, such as through partnerships with schools in different areas, enrich their learning and foster an appreciation for diversity and equality. The school also emphasizes spiritual development, with effective links to local religious institutions and a variety of visitors who contribute to the educational experience.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The school leaders and governors maintain high expectations for staff and pupils alike, ensuring that professional development opportunities are available to support staff in their roles. The governing body is well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing appropriate support and challenge.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sicklinghall Community Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. Overall, the school is committed to continuous improvement and providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
