Sessay Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School, located in a rural community in North Yorkshire, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 10, 2024. The school provides a welcoming environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and personally. Leaders have established a positive atmosphere that promotes well-being and high aspirations for student achievement. The curriculum is well-structured, with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning, which enhances the educational experience. Pupils perform well in national assessments, reflecting the effectiveness of the academic programs in place.
The school places a significant focus on personal, spiritual, and social development, working closely with the local church to foster a sense of community. Leadership opportunities are available for all pupils from Year 1 onwards, allowing them to engage in various leadership groups. These groups include eco-gardening, fundraising, and supporting the spiritual life of the school. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and teamwork among students, contributing to a positive school culture.
Pupils demonstrate strong cooperation in lessons and during playtime, supported by a robust system for managing feelings and behavior. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils express confidence in the adults who support them. The school promotes peer support, with older students assisting younger ones during lunchtime and in the canteen, further enhancing the community spirit.
School leaders have carefully considered the learning objectives for pupils, particularly in core subjects such as English, mathematics, and science. The curriculum in these areas is well sequenced, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge effectively. However, there is a need for further development in some foundation subjects to ensure that the most important knowledge and skills are clearly identified and taught. Some resources and activities in these subjects do not consistently support the embedding of key concepts.
Reading is a strong focus at Sessay, with a curriculum that encourages pupils to explore a diverse range of literature. This approach broadens their horizons and supports learning across various subjects. Early reading instruction is particularly effective, enabling pupils to develop fluency and confidence. Additional support is provided for those who need it, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, achieve well.
The school excels in fostering attributes such as resilience and problem-solving, with outdoor education playing a key role in this development. Pupils engage in activities that promote teamwork and practical skills, connecting their outdoor learning experiences with classroom subjects. Behavior is generally good, with effective support in place for those who require additional assistance.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively supporting and challenging the school leadership. They are well-informed about the school's operations and ensure that it remains outward-facing, utilizing external advice and support. Parental engagement is high, with most parents expressing strong support for the school and its initiatives.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. Overall, Sessay Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, with a strong emphasis on both academic achievement and personal development. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to enhance learning outcomes across all subjects.
