Barlby Bridge Community Primary School, located in Selby, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 9 and 10, 2024. The school prides itself on fostering a family-like atmosphere where every pupil feels valued and supported. Staff members are dedicated to knowing each student as an individual, which contributes to positive and nurturing relationships. This environment ensures that pupils feel happy and safe while attending school.
The school maintains high expectations for its students, who respond positively to the encouragement and support provided by the staff. Pupils exhibit good behavior during playtimes, lunchtimes, and while moving around the school. Instances of bullying are rare and are addressed swiftly and effectively by the school. The staff's understanding of individual pupil needs is commendable, with a strong emphasis on care and nurture from the early years onward. This approach fosters positive attitudes among pupils, who demonstrate inclusivity and respect for diversity, largely influenced by the school’s Barlby Equalities Ambassadors.
Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, allowing them to engage in school improvement initiatives and support their peers. The school council plays a role in planning enhancements, while older students provide buddy support to younger children. A variety of extracurricular activities are offered, enabling pupils to explore interests beyond the academic curriculum.
The curriculum at Barlby Bridge is currently undergoing a review and enhancement process. In subjects such as mathematics and history, the school has developed an ambitious and well-structured learning program that clearly outlines the essential knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire over time. This structured approach aids in building knowledge in a logical sequence. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum is still in development, which affects the effectiveness of knowledge acquisition for pupils.
The school has established robust systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils receive appropriate adaptations to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers. The school also promotes a strong reading culture, with a focus on high-quality texts and effective phonics instruction. Regular assessments of reading progress ensure that pupils who may fall behind receive the necessary support to catch up.
In the early years, children are provided with a well-organized learning environment that promotes independence and cooperation. They quickly adapt to the high expectations set by the staff, demonstrating calm and orderly behavior. The school’s behavior policy is well understood by pupils, who appreciate the fairness with which they are treated.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is thoughtfully designed, addressing relevant issues such as social media's impact on body image and the importance of healthy relationships. The school actively engages with the community, as evidenced by arranging visits from professionals, such as oral hygienists, to address local health concerns.
The leadership team, which is relatively new, has quickly identified areas for improvement and has taken decisive action to implement their vision for the school. Staff members feel supported in their roles, and governors are actively involved in fulfilling their responsibilities. While most parents express satisfaction with the education provided, some have raised concerns regarding communication from the school. The school acknowledges this feedback and aims to enhance communication strategies to better inform parents about how they can support their children's education at home.
The safeguarding arrangements at Barlby Bridge Community Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum in certain subjects and enhancing communication with parents. Overall, Barlby Bridge Community Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
