Hertford Vale Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Staxton, North Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on September 12 and 13, 2023, and evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were also rated as good.
The school is characterized by its strong Christian values of respect, kindness, love, peace, and resilience, which are evident in the positive atmosphere fostered among pupils and staff. Students express happiness and a sense of belonging within the school community, highlighting its inclusive nature. The curriculum has been thoughtfully refined in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with subject leaders demonstrating passion and high expectations for student achievement across a broad and balanced curriculum. The school emphasizes personal development, encouraging pupils to contribute positively to their community, as seen in events like Pride Day.
Pupils feel safe and demonstrate respect and tolerance towards one another, contributing to a positive behavioral environment. The school has made significant strides in developing its ambitious curriculum over the past year, with staff effectively delivering lessons that engage students and promote resilience. Pupils are able to connect their current learning with prior knowledge, and those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils, receive appropriate support to access the curriculum.
Phonics instruction is a strong focus from the outset, with children in Reception learning to read effectively. However, some pupils struggle to apply their phonics knowledge in reading and writing, particularly in spelling. As students progress, they become fluent readers, and timely interventions are provided for those needing additional support. The school promotes a love of reading through quality texts and a well-stocked library.
Early years provision is robust, laying a solid foundation for children's learning. The learning environment in Reception is purposeful, with a strong emphasis on language development. Staff engage with children through high-quality interactions, fostering their learning through effective questioning.
Relationships between staff and pupils are positive, with calm and orderly behavior observed throughout the school. Pupils exhibit excellent manners and kindness, and there is a consensus among parents, staff, and students regarding the school's commitment to good behavior. Pupils are aware of trusted adults they can approach if issues arise, and they display positive attitudes towards learning.
The personal development curriculum is well-structured, teaching pupils about tolerance and diversity. Daily worship reinforces the school's Christian ethos, providing spiritual, moral, social, and cultural guidance. Pupils actively participate in various clubs and activities, including choir and sports, and have opportunities to develop leadership skills through initiatives like the worship council and business club.
The governing body is committed and supportive, with a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Teachers feel supported in their roles, with a focus on their well-being and workload. The school maintains close ties with the diocese, enhancing its educational offerings.
While the school has made significant progress, there are areas for improvement. Assessment practices in some subjects need refinement to better identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. Additionally, the application of phonics knowledge in reading and writing requires further attention to ensure all pupils progress effectively through the curriculum. Overall, Hertford Vale Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment.
