Thornton Watlass Church of England Primary School, located in North Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school operates in a federation with Snape Community Primary School, allowing for shared resources and collaborative opportunities for pupils across both sites. This structure fosters a sense of community, with pupils enjoying their time at school and forming strong relationships with both peers and staff. The behavior of most pupils is commendable, and instances of bullying are rare, with effective measures in place to address any issues that arise.
The leadership team has established a clear and ambitious vision for the school, maintaining high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to be coherent and ambitious, particularly in the early years, where it reflects the children's experiences and the context of the schools. As a result, pupils are increasingly engaged in their learning, although there are occasional lapses in behavior that are promptly addressed by leaders.
The school excels in mathematics, with a strong emphasis on developing pupils' skills from an early age. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge, although some pupils struggle to articulate their prior learning. This indicates a need for more explicit connections to be made between new and previously learned material. In subjects like science, there is room for improvement in the level of challenge presented to pupils, ensuring that tasks are sufficiently ambitious to deepen their understanding.
Reading is a priority at Thornton Watlass, with a consistent phonics program in place. By Year 3, most pupils are fluent readers, and those who struggle receive timely support to help them catch up. The school promotes a well-rounded education, with opportunities for personal, social, health, and citizenship education. Pupils demonstrate a mature understanding of diverse family structures and the importance of health and safety.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including educational visits and after-school clubs, which enhance pupils' experiences and help them develop new skills and interests. The governors play an active role in supporting the school, recognizing the pressures faced by staff in a small school environment. They have implemented measures to support staff well-being, which is appreciated by the teaching team.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Leaders have tailored the curriculum to address specific risks associated with living in a rural community, ensuring that pupils are educated about their environment. The school maintains detailed safeguarding records and collaborates with families and external agencies to address any concerns swiftly.
While the school has made significant strides since its last inspection, there are areas for further development. Leaders should focus on enhancing teachers' subject knowledge to ensure that all tasks set for pupils are sufficiently challenging. This will help pupils acquire a deeper understanding of the curriculum and make meaningful connections between their learning experiences. Overall, Thornton Watlass Church of England Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
