Misson Primary School, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on the 28th and 29th of November 2023, and the school has maintained a good rating since its previous inspection in March 2018. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Misson Primary School are described as polite and friendly, thriving in a calm learning environment. By the time they reach upper key stage two, they exhibit confidence and readiness for the next phase of their education. The school sets high expectations for behavior and academic performance, which most pupils meet. They demonstrate resilience, independence, and self-belief, aligning with the school’s vision. The school enriches learning through various experiences, including annual productions and residential trips, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to a wide range of activities.
The school fosters a sense of happiness and safety among pupils, contributing to high attendance rates. Pupils feel comfortable discussing any concerns with adults, and positive relationships between children and staff are evident across all year groups. Parents and carers express enthusiasm for the school, appreciating its focus on developing well-rounded children through both enrichment and academic progress.
Misson Primary School has designed an ambitious curriculum that builds from early years, with leaders identifying key knowledge and the sequence in which pupils should learn it. However, in a few subjects, this work is not yet complete. Regular assessments help teachers provide appropriate support for pupils, ensuring a strong start in early years where children are well cared for and encouraged to make meaningful choices in their learning.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a new phonics program introduced last year that has positively impacted pupils' enjoyment and understanding of reading. The school promotes a love of reading through competitions, celebrations, and effective use of the library. In mathematics, pupils build their understanding incrementally, enjoying their learning and responding well to challenges.
The curriculum is brought to life through engaging lessons, with younger pupils exploring outdoor learning areas and older pupils investigating historical topics. The school meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs, helping them achieve positive outcomes alongside their peers. Personal development is central to the school’s mission, with most pupils participating in clubs that teach resilience and teamwork, contributing to their good behavior and positive attitudes.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require further refinement in identifying the specific knowledge pupils need to acquire and the order in which they should learn it. Additionally, the school’s plans for teaching British values are not fully developed, leading to some pupils lacking a clear understanding of these values. The school is encouraged to ensure that all pupils have an age-appropriate grasp of the key values important in contemporary Britain.
Overall, Misson Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team is well-informed about the school’s strengths and areas for development, and staff express pride in their work, valuing the support they receive. The school’s effective safeguarding arrangements further contribute to a positive educational experience for all students.
