Located on Harrington Street in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, St Anne’s CofE (Aided) Primary School has once again been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on December 3-4, 2019. The school, which caters to children aged 5 to 11, has demonstrated a commitment to fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils thrive academically and socially.
Pupils at St Anne’s express enthusiasm for their learning experiences, highlighting the supportive nature of the staff. The school’s ethos encourages students to strive for personal excellence, encapsulated in the motto to be the best you that you can be. This positive reinforcement is evident in the strong relationships cultivated among students and between pupils and staff, contributing to a sense of community and belonging.
The school’s five golden rules promote respect and kindness, which have effectively minimized instances of bullying. Pupils feel safe and are encouraged to communicate any concerns to trusted adults, ensuring a supportive atmosphere where everyone can flourish.
St Anne’s offers a wealth of opportunities for pupils to explore new interests and develop skills outside the traditional curriculum. From theatre visits to art and engineering competitions, students are encouraged to engage with their community and the wider world. Notably, older pupils take on leadership roles, such as being ‘peacemakers’ or buddies for younger students, fostering a culture of care and responsibility.
The school’s curriculum is designed to be ambitious and inclusive, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), receive the support they need to succeed. Teachers employ effective strategies to enhance reading and mathematics skills, with regular practice and engaging lessons that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
In reading, the school emphasizes the importance of daily practice, with teachers reading to pupils and linking literature to various subjects. Mathematics instruction is equally robust, with pupils revisiting concepts to reinforce their understanding and confidence.
While St Anne’s has many strengths, the inspection identified a need for improvement in the history curriculum. Leaders are working to ensure that pupils have more opportunities to connect their learning across different historical topics, which will enhance their understanding of how events influence one another.
The school actively engages with the local community, organizing visits to nursing homes and food banks, which help pupils understand diverse values and beliefs. The governing body and school leaders provide strong support for staff, who appreciate the professional development opportunities available to enhance their teaching practices.
St Anne’s CofE (Aided) Primary School stands out as a nurturing and effective educational institution. With its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and the well-being of its pupils, the school continues to be a vital part of the Worksop community. As it moves forward, the focus on enhancing the history curriculum will further solidify its reputation as a school that not only educates but also inspires its students to become well-rounded individuals.
