Prince Bishops Community Primary School in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, was inspected on February 6 and 7, 2024, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation for providing a caring and supportive environment for its pupils. Staff members build positive relationships with students, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages good behavior. The presence of Jess, the school dog, exemplifies the nurturing environment, as pupils learn responsibility by helping to care for her.
The leadership team is ambitious regarding pupil achievement, particularly in English and mathematics, where the curriculum is robust. The personal development curriculum is notably impressive, offering a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for life beyond their immediate surroundings. The Friday afternoon enrichment sessions are particularly valued by pupils, serving as both an incentive and a reward for their hard work throughout the week.
The school emphasizes core values such as honesty, ambition, responsibility, and kindness, which pupils understand and respect. The inclusive environment celebrates diversity, with pupils learning about each other's cultures and languages. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive excellent support, allowing them to learn alongside their peers effectively.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, beginning in the early years. Teachers are aware of pupils' starting points, and the curriculum content stimulates curiosity and encourages critical questioning. Local history is integrated into lessons, enhancing pupils' understanding of their community. The mathematics curriculum effectively builds pupils' skills, starting with confident counting in the early years.
Reading is prioritized, and pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for literature, often discussing their favorite characters and plots. The school employs a consistent phonics approach, enabling pupils to develop a broad vocabulary and improve their reading skills rapidly. Those who require additional support are quickly identified and provided with extra sessions to help them catch up.
Despite the strengths in reading and mathematics, Year 6 pupils' outcomes in 2023 were disappointing, attributed to significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendance remains a concern, with some pupils not attending school as regularly as they should. The school is actively working to improve attendance through rigorous monitoring and support for families, and early signs indicate that attendance is improving this academic year.
The breadth of the personal development curriculum is exceptional, tailored to meet the individual needs of pupils. The school is proud of its efforts to develop resilience and character, with pupils gaining a comprehensive understanding of safety issues, including online safety and criminal exploitation. Enrichment activities are well-planned, providing pupils with new experiences and skills, such as outdoor skills in preparation for future residential trips.
Governors possess a strong understanding of the school and come from diverse backgrounds, equipping them to challenge and support school leaders effectively. The school collaborates with external agencies to enhance safeguarding and support for pupils with special educational needs. Staff members are dedicated and feel valued, with their well-being considered in school decisions.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school must continue to address attendance issues, ensuring that all pupils benefit from the curriculum and enrichment opportunities available. Overall, Prince Bishops Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and personal development for its pupils.
