Hackforth and Hornby Church of England Primary School is a small village primary school located in North Yorkshire. The school has two classes, one for early years and key stage one pupils and the other for key stage two pupils. The headteacher has been in position since September 2021, and the school has entered into a collaboration with the Federation of Snape Community and Thornton Watlass Church of England Primary Schools. The recent inspection, conducted on 15 and 16 November 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, consistent with the previous inspection in October 2019.
The school is characterized by a happy and caring environment that fosters a strong sense of community among pupils. They enjoy each other's company and engage in cooperative play. The school promotes a strong Christian ethos, with values such as compassion, courage, hope, and respect being well understood by the pupils. Teachers encourage students to work hard and strive for success, which is reflected in their positive attitudes towards learning. Pupils express enthusiasm for their lessons, with subjects like handwriting and science being particularly favored.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating good manners and courtesy. The small class sizes allow for inclusive participation in activities, and pupils take responsibility for their environment by helping with tasks like cleaning desks and setting up for lunch. They are equipped with skills to resolve conflicts independently, although teachers are available to intervene when necessary. The school has successfully created a safe environment where bullying is not reported by pupils.
The curriculum is well-planned and sequenced, ensuring that key concepts are interconnected across subjects. Leaders have designed a bespoke curriculum that meets the needs of the pupils, particularly in mixed-age classes. While there has been progress in developing teachers' subject knowledge, some areas still require further support. Teachers effectively use assessment to gauge pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge, although there are instances where the pace of lessons may be too rapid for some students.
Phonics instruction is a strong focus, with a consistent and systematic approach that has been embedded in the school. Pupils are becoming fluent readers, enjoying access to quality texts and engaging in daily storytime. The school prioritizes the mental health and well-being of its pupils, providing pastoral support and opportunities for character development. Pupils learn about healthy relationships and cultural diversity through various activities, including trips to local museums and places of worship.
Staff well-being is also a priority, with leaders demonstrating care and concern for their team. The appointment of a well-being leader and governor reflects this commitment. Staff appreciate the teamwork and support they receive, which contributes to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with regular training for staff and governors. The headteacher ensures that concerns are addressed promptly, and detailed records are maintained. The school emphasizes online safety and provides information for parents to support their children's safety.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance teachers' subject knowledge in certain foundation subjects and clarify the essential knowledge required for mixed-age classes. Leaders are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education tailored to their needs.
