Distington Community School, located in Workington, Cumbria, has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection in March 2017, moving from a status of requires improvement to an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection conducted on September 24-25, 2019, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for its pupils. Students feel secure and are encouraged to seek help from staff when needed. The high expectations set by teachers motivate pupils to strive for excellence, and they take pride in their work, often sharing their achievements with the headteacher.
The leadership team has prioritized a well-rounded education, focusing on developing pupils into enthusiastic readers and ensuring they are prepared for secondary school. The curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of subjects, and leaders are actively working to enhance the quality of education provided. Pupils demonstrate good attendance, understanding its importance for their learning, and they engage in various responsibilities, such as participating in the school council, which fosters a sense of belonging and value.
Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils moving around the premises sensibly and showing respect towards staff and visitors. They settle into learning quickly and exhibit caring attitudes towards one another, with older students often assisting younger peers. The school has a strong anti-bullying culture, and pupils report that incidents are rare and dealt with promptly by teachers.
The curriculum has been carefully structured to ensure that pupils build their knowledge and skills progressively. Teachers have been involved in developing the curriculum, which allows them to plan lessons effectively. While the curriculum is generally well-implemented, there are minor adjustments needed in the sequencing of learning in subjects like history, geography, and art to enhance coherence.
Pupils excel in reading, with a strong emphasis placed on phonics from the early years. Staff are well-trained in teaching reading, and additional support is provided to those who may struggle. This focus on reading positively impacts learning across other subjects, as evidenced by pupils' engagement with literature that connects to their history lessons.
Mathematics instruction is also effective, with pupils developing a solid foundation that enables them to tackle more complex problems as they progress through their education. Teachers provide support to ensure that pupils understand concepts thoroughly, fostering a positive learning environment.
In the early years, children make significant progress due to the well-organized classrooms and the understanding of how young children learn. The early years curriculum is engaging and prepares children well for their transition to Year 1. Leaders monitor children's progress closely, ensuring that those who need extra help receive it promptly.
Pupils benefit from a variety of extracurricular experiences that contribute to their personal development, including fundraising activities and educational trips. The school promotes awareness of different cultures and faiths, helping pupils to consider their future aspirations.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with clear systems for reporting concerns. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding protocols, and the school collaborates with external agencies to support pupils and their families. Leaders are aware of the risks pupils may face and take proactive steps to educate them about safety, particularly online.
Overall, Distington Community School has made commendable strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, ensuring that all students receive the best possible education and support as they prepare for their future.
