Mandale Mill Primary School, located in Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees, underwent an inspection on February 11 and 12, 2020, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Mandale Mill Primary School exhibit pride in their school and demonstrate happiness and friendliness. They are welcoming and supportive of one another, contributing to a positive school environment. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a clear understanding that bullying is unacceptable. Any incidents of bullying are rare and addressed seriously by staff. The emotional health and well-being of pupils are prioritized, and they report feeling safe due to the caring nature of the staff. Positive relationships between adults and pupils further enhance the school atmosphere.
Teachers at the school create enjoyable learning experiences and maintain high expectations for all students. This approach fosters curiosity and excitement among pupils, leading to good attendance rates. The early years provision is well-managed, with consistent rules and routines that help children settle quickly. Pupils in the early years are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1, as they develop foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as participating in the eco group or serving as sports leaders. They take these roles seriously and are proud of their contributions to the school and local community, including initiatives like litter picking and fundraising for local charities.
The headteacher and school leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed, providing a balanced approach of support and challenge. Teachers encourage pupils to set high expectations for themselves, and pupils are aware of the standards they can achieve. The curriculum is designed to be challenging, and while some subjects require further development, leaders are actively working to share best practices across the school.
The school has recognized that previous Year 6 pupils did not achieve satisfactory results in national tests due to inadequate teaching at that time. However, current teaching standards have improved significantly, resulting in good progress for pupils across the school, including those in upper key stage 2. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support to ensure their success.
In the early years, many children enter with limited knowledge of sounds, letters, or numbers. Staff effectively support these children to catch up quickly, incorporating frequent reading, writing, and mathematical activities into their daily routines. By the end of Reception, children are well-prepared for Year 1.
Mathematics is a subject that pupils enjoy and value, with carefully planned lessons that ensure they master essential number facts. Pupils can articulate their learning in various subjects, demonstrating their understanding and retention of knowledge as they progress through the school.
Reading is a top priority, with a strong emphasis on phonics instruction. By the end of Year 1, pupils perform well in national phonics assessments. The school fosters a love of reading through carefully selected texts and daily read-aloud sessions, which engage pupils and enhance their literacy skills.
The school excels in promoting pupils' personal, social, and emotional development, fostering respect for diverse cultures and faiths. Strong partnerships with external agencies ensure that the needs of vulnerable pupils and families are effectively met. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who prioritize the welfare of all pupils. Overall, Mandale Mill Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
