Ofsted conducted a visit to Kielder Primary School on October 1, 2020, to assess the school's response to the reopening following the COVID-19 pandemic. The visit was part of a broader initiative to understand how schools across England were managing the return to full education after an extended period of disruption. The visit was not an inspection, and no graded judgments were made. Instead, it focused on gathering information about the school's operations and the measures taken to support pupils' well-being and learning.
During the visit, the headteacher, Fay Hartland, provided insights into the school's preparations for the full reopening on September 2, 2020. The school had implemented a few days of settling-in for pupils to help them adjust back to the school environment. This period was dedicated to promoting the well-being, safety, and happiness of the students. The headteacher reported that attendance was broadly similar to the school's usual figures for this time of year, indicating a successful transition back to full-time schooling.
The school has prioritized phonics and reading for younger pupils, particularly those in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2. Staff have been actively checking pupils' phonics knowledge and providing additional support for those who may be falling behind. Daily mathematics sessions are also a key component of the curriculum, with teachers assessing what pupils know and remember. The school is revisiting essential mathematical concepts, such as times tables and number fluency, to ensure that students are on track with their learning.
In addition to core subjects, the school employs a topic-based approach to deliver subjects like history, geography, and science. Teachers are using observations and discussions with pupils to identify gaps in knowledge and understanding, allowing for targeted support where necessary. The headteacher mentioned that the school is reflecting on its remote learning strategies, which included live online lessons and the distribution of paper work packs during the school closure. These methods may be utilized again if needed in the future.
The visit did not reveal any significant concerns, and the information gathered will contribute to Ofsted's national reporting, which aims to inform the government and the education sector about the current state of schools. The headteacher expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the school's experiences, which will help shape future educational policies.
Overall, Kielder Primary School has demonstrated a proactive approach to managing the challenges posed by the pandemic. The focus on pupil well-being, alongside a structured academic recovery plan, reflects the school's commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment. The insights gained from this visit will be valuable in understanding how schools are navigating the complexities of post-pandemic education and ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive. The visit's findings will be shared with relevant stakeholders, including the governing body and local education authorities, and the letter summarizing the visit will be published on the Ofsted website for broader access.
