Sharley Park Community Primary School, located in Clay Cross, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 18 and 19, 2023. The school fosters a safe and happy environment where pupils feel valued and supported. Staff and students share strong relationships, with senior leaders greeting pupils warmly each morning and addressing any concerns promptly. The school is described as a true community, with a welcoming atmosphere that promotes a sense of belonging among students and their families.
Leaders at Sharley Park have high expectations for their pupils and create a calm learning environment. Pupils engage well with one another, particularly enjoying group work, and exhibit excellent behavior throughout the school day. The presence of Teddy, the school dog, adds to the positive atmosphere, and parents express satisfaction with the supportive and caring nature of the school. Pupils are provided with enriching experiences that help them develop into responsible global citizens, with memorable outings such as a trip to Matlock Farm being highlighted by students.
The school effectively teaches pupils about bullying, ensuring they understand how to recognize it and what steps to take if it occurs. Pupils feel confident in their teachers' ability to handle any issues that arise, and staff respond quickly to any incidents of bullying.
Sharley Park has designed an ambitious and creative curriculum, identifying essential knowledge for pupils and breaking it down into manageable steps. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and utilize effective questioning and modeling techniques to enhance pupils' understanding. In subjects like computing, pupils can articulate their learning confidently, showcasing their grasp of key concepts. Regular revisiting of learning in core subjects such as English and mathematics allows teachers to identify and address misconceptions, ensuring that pupils build on their knowledge effectively.
However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in some foundation subjects where assessment practices are not as robust. Teachers may not always identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, which can hinder learning in these areas. Leaders are encouraged to enhance assessment strategies across all subjects to better support teachers in tracking pupil progress.
The school has made significant strides in its reading curriculum, prioritizing phonics and ensuring that all staff are trained to deliver the program effectively. This systematic approach helps pupils develop their reading skills, with older students expressing enthusiasm for reading and discussing their favorite authors and genres.
Sharley Park also emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, teaching them about healthy lifestyles, relationships, and respect for diversity. The school offers various extracurricular activities, enriching the educational experience for its students.
Staff at Sharley Park feel valued and supported, with leaders actively addressing workload concerns. The governing body plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable and maintaining an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. They are well-trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils know who to approach if they have worries. Leaders are proactive in securing additional support for pupils and families when needed.
Overall, Sharley Park Community Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on pupil well-being and academic achievement. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in enhancing assessment practices in foundation subjects to ensure all pupils reach their full potential.
