Mattersey Primary School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school is well-regarded within the community, with staff and pupils expressing pride in their affiliation with it. The ethos of the school is encapsulated in the sentiment that everyone matters at Mattersey, reflecting a strong sense of belonging among students and their families. The supportive environment fosters positive relationships, with older pupils actively engaging younger ones during playtimes, demonstrating a culture of care and inclusivity.
The school provides a well-structured curriculum that is designed to enhance pupils' learning experiences. It includes a variety of trips that enrich the educational journey, such as visits to the Houses of Parliament and the National Space Museum, which pupils recall with enthusiasm. Parents have expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the school, noting that their children are happy and receive the necessary support when facing challenges.
The curriculum is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning regularly. This approach aids in retention and helps students make connections between new and previously acquired knowledge. The early years curriculum is ambitious, aiming to prepare children for future learning stages. However, there is a recognized need for improvement in developing communication skills among younger pupils, which is essential for their ongoing educational success.
Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge and generally check for understanding during lessons. However, there are instances where activities do not align with pupils' existing knowledge, particularly in mixed-age classes. This can lead to some pupils not having the opportunity to deepen their understanding consistently. Reading is prioritized, with a diverse range of texts being made available to pupils, ensuring that they engage with literature that reflects various backgrounds and cultures. Staff are well-trained to support early reading development, identifying those who may need additional help promptly.
In the early years, while positive relationships are established, the learning environment has not always been utilized effectively to support independent learning and communication skills. The school is aware of this and is taking steps to address it. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive timely and appropriate support, allowing them to engage with the curriculum effectively.
Behaviour within the school is generally calm and orderly, although some pupils do not attend as regularly as they should. The school is actively working to improve attendance and support families in ensuring that children arrive on time. Pupils are encouraged to participate in various enrichment activities, which broaden their understanding of different cultures and the importance of respect.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively supporting and challenging school leaders. The leadership team is well-regarded, and staff feel valued and part of a cohesive team. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness further, the school needs to focus on improving the use of the learning environment in the early years to better support children's learning and communication skills. Additionally, ensuring that work in mixed-age classes is tailored to individual understanding will help solidify pupils' knowledge and skills. Overall, Mattersey Primary School is a supportive and well-managed institution that is committed to the continuous improvement of its educational offerings.
