Pennine Way Primary School, located in Harraby, Carlisle, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 8 and 9, 2022. The school fosters a positive and inclusive environment where pupils are encouraged to value cooperation, respect, and empathy. Students take pride in their school and demonstrate a strong eagerness to learn, responding well to the high expectations set by school leaders regarding their learning and behavior. This positive atmosphere contributes to their overall achievement.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior both in lessons and throughout the school. They show kindness and consideration towards one another and the staff. The school effectively manages incidents of bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with any concerns. The curriculum includes education about diverse cultures and beliefs, promoting respect for differing viewpoints. Pupils express a commitment to supporting others, regardless of their background.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including various clubs and trips to local attractions, which help broaden pupils' knowledge and develop their interests. All students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, actively participate in school life. Leaders and governors have a strong understanding of the school and its community, working diligently to support both children and families in their educational journey.
The curriculum at Pennine Way is broad and ambitious, designed to build on pupils' prior knowledge. Regular assessments ensure that students retain information over time, allowing them to make connections across subjects. While most subjects are well-structured, a few lack clarity regarding the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire, which can hinder effective teaching. This gap in subject knowledge may prevent pupils from achieving their full potential in those areas.
Staff collaboration is encouraged, allowing teachers to enhance their expertise and effectively use assessment data to tailor learning experiences. Leaders are adept at identifying pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed. The school has recently implemented a new approach to teaching early reading, which has proven effective, enabling young learners to quickly acquire essential skills. Teachers prioritize regular reading opportunities, fostering a love for literature among pupils.
Pupils are attentive in lessons, allowing teachers to deliver instruction without interruptions. They engage well with peers of different ages, with older students providing support to younger ones. The school ensures that all pupils can access additional clubs and educational visits that enrich their learning experiences. Governors actively monitor the curriculum to ensure it supports pupil achievement.
Staff members feel valued and supported by school leaders, contributing to a positive work environment. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with clear protocols for reporting concerns. Parents and carers view the school as a reliable source of support, and pupils are educated on safety practices. The school maintains strong links with local community organizations, enhancing pupils' understanding of safety and well-being.
To improve further, the school needs to clarify the knowledge required in a few subjects and enhance teachers' subject knowledge across the curriculum. This will ensure that all pupils can achieve and retain knowledge effectively, preparing them for future learning. Overall, Pennine Way Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
