Crakehall Church of England Primary School is a small primary school located in North Yorkshire, serving children aged 5 to 11. The school has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection, moving from a status of requiring improvement to being rated as good overall. The leadership team, including the executive headteacher and head of school, has effectively addressed previous weaknesses and fostered a strong, united team among staff. Their commitment to enhancing teaching quality and student outcomes is evident in the positive changes observed in the school environment.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is now good, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics. Pupils are making good progress due to well-planned lessons and thorough monitoring by leaders, which ensures that no student falls behind. The school promotes a positive behavior culture, with pupils displaying courtesy and politeness, contributing to a harmonious community. New students are welcomed warmly, helping them to settle in quickly.
The curriculum is designed to support pupils' social, moral, spiritual, and cultural development effectively. Opportunities for physical activity are abundant, with a range of sports available to keep pupils engaged. In the early years, children show good levels of independence and cooperation, although there is a need for more challenge for the most able children to exceed expected standards. Some pupils, particularly the most able, occasionally lack sufficient challenge in subjects like science and history, which can hinder their independent thinking.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-targeted, resulting in good progress in most areas, although reading support could be improved by better matching books to pupils' phonics knowledge. The school has identified gaps in knowledge in subjects like history and science, and plans are in place to refine teaching sequences in these areas.
Governance is strong, with governors actively involved in the school's improvement journey. They provide effective oversight and support for the leadership team, although there is a need for more formal checks on the school's equalities duty. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil welfare and ensuring that staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures.
Pupils' personal development and welfare are well-supported, with a focus on creating a safe and nurturing environment. Older pupils take on responsibilities, such as buddying younger students, which fosters a sense of community. The school promotes understanding of safety and well-being through various initiatives, including visits from experts. However, opportunities to deepen understanding of equality and diversity could be enhanced.
Overall, the school has made significant strides in improving its effectiveness, with good outcomes for pupils evident in their progress and achievements. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education that prepares them well for future challenges. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for further development, ensuring that all pupils can thrive in a supportive and enriching environment.
