Hawsker Cum Stainsacre Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. The school fosters a sense of belonging among new pupils, who quickly integrate into the school community. Positive relationships between staff and students are evident throughout the school, contributing to a supportive learning atmosphere. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, and the behavior policy, developed in consultation with parents and the school council, is well understood and has led to improved behavior among students. Classrooms are calm and conducive to learning, while break times allow pupils to enjoy the extensive outdoor space, promoting safe and enjoyable play across different age groups.
The school has made significant strides in addressing its curriculum since the arrival of the new headteacher. Leaders have identified previous weaknesses in the curriculum that hindered pupils' ability to retain knowledge over time. In response, they have implemented a systematic approach to curriculum development, resulting in positive impacts on pupils' learning. Reading instruction is prioritized, with all staff trained in phonics, enabling pupils to read with increasing fluency and accuracy. Assessments are used effectively to identify gaps in phonics knowledge, and timely support is provided to meet individual needs. Pupils are exposed to a variety of genres and authors, fostering a love for reading.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, allowing them to address misconceptions promptly. However, some subjects, such as design and technology, are still in the early stages of development, and staff may lack confidence in teaching certain content. To support this, leaders have introduced commercial schemes to enhance teachers' subject knowledge. In the early years, children develop a solid understanding of counting and mathematical concepts through engaging activities.
The school effectively adapts the curriculum for mixed-age classes, ensuring that tasks are appropriately challenging for all pupils. For instance, during the inspection, key stage one pupils explored vehicles while reception children engaged in creative activities related to a recent visit to the local fire station. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities benefit from a nurturing approach, with staff adapting the curriculum to meet their needs. However, the specific small steps required for these pupils' progress have not been clearly defined, which may limit the effectiveness of the support provided.
Governors are actively involved in the school's development, regularly monitoring key areas and considering the impact of their decisions on staff workload. Pupils are encouraged to develop respect for diverse faiths and cultures, participating in events such as Eid celebrations. Many pupils engage in extracurricular activities and take on leadership roles, demonstrating responsibility and pride in their school community.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that staff are aware of potential concerns, and thorough checks are conducted to ensure the suitability of adults working with pupils. The personal, social, and health education curriculum addresses physical and mental well-being, equipping pupils with knowledge about safety and health-related issues.
To further improve, the school needs to clearly identify the specific steps required for pupils with special educational needs to progress effectively. Additionally, some subjects require further refinement to ensure that all pupils benefit from a well-rounded education. Overall, Hawsker Cum Stainsacre Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
