Gunnerside Methodist Primary School, located in Richmond, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where every pupil is valued. The leadership team, including governors and staff, maintains high aspirations for all students, fostering a culture rooted in the values of love, hope, kindness, and peace. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to reflect the local community and equip pupils with an understanding of life in modern Britain. Students benefit from diverse experiences, including participation in a fell running club and educational visits, such as a recent trip to Edinburgh.
Pupils at Gunnerside Methodist Primary School exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating kindness and courtesy towards both staff and peers. They celebrate acts of kindness and engage respectfully with one another from an early age. The school environment is perceived as very safe, with students reporting that bullying is rare. They express confidence in the support available from adults in the school should any issues arise. Parents overwhelmingly support the school, highlighting the approachability and care of the staff, which contributes to a positive settling experience for their children.
The school excels in its ambitious expectations for pupils, supported by a well-structured curriculum developed across the federation of schools. Leaders have carefully considered how to support and challenge students in mixed-age classes, ensuring effective learning outcomes. Subject leaders have created detailed plans that facilitate the gradual building of knowledge and skills. In subjects like art and design, pupils explore a diverse range of artists and progressively enhance their skills. The curriculum is designed to start in early years, ensuring clarity in the skills and knowledge expected in various subjects.
Early reading is prioritized, with staff receiving strong training to deliver consistent and effective phonics instruction. Pupils demonstrate confidence in using phonics strategies to tackle unfamiliar words, and younger children show enthusiasm during phonics lessons. The school provides well-matched reading materials, fostering fluency and a love for reading among students. Older pupils are capable readers who engage with various genres and authors, supported by initiatives like reading trees and reading ambassadors.
The school is inclusive, effectively supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While the school provides access to the full curriculum, there is a need for leaders to enhance their understanding of how to support some pupils with SEND to ensure stronger progress. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a clear understanding of school rules and routines contributing to a calm and orderly environment.
Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including popular clubs like fell running and mountain biking. Educational visits are integrated into the curriculum, enriching students' learning experiences. Pupils engage in discussions about healthy relationships, online safety, and the changes they will experience as they grow older, demonstrating maturity and understanding of British values.
Staff express positive sentiments about working at the school, highlighting a collaborative culture and consideration for workload and well-being in decision-making. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with pupils feeling safe and supported by trusted adults. The designated safeguarding lead is well-informed about the school community and maintains thorough records.
In summary, Gunnerside Methodist Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience, characterized by high expectations, a supportive environment, and a commitment to inclusivity. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the support for pupils with SEND, the overall atmosphere and educational quality reflect a strong foundation for student growth and development.
