Castle Carrock School, located in Brampton, Cumbria, has recently undergone an inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023, and has been rated as good overall. The school has shown significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was graded as requiring improvement. The quality of education is rated as good, with outstanding marks for behavior and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision. Leadership and management are also deemed good, reflecting the effective strategies implemented by the school leaders.
The school environment is described as friendly and welcoming, fostering positive relationships among pupils and staff. Pupils demonstrate high standards of behavior and are aware of the expectations set for them. The school promotes a culture where bullying is rare, and any issues are addressed promptly by the staff, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. The sense of community is strong, with pupils actively contributing to school life and local initiatives, often taking on leadership roles and participating in various activities.
Castle Carrock School has made notable strides in curriculum development. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum across most subjects, ensuring that learning objectives are clear and build progressively across year groups. However, there are still a few subjects where the curriculum design has not been fully refined, leading to some gaps in knowledge for pupils in mixed-age classes. This is an area identified for further improvement, as it affects the overall achievement of some pupils.
Teachers at the school possess strong subject knowledge and receive effective training, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. They utilize various assessment methods to monitor pupil progress and provide additional support when necessary. The teaching in early years is particularly commendable, with staff adeptly differentiating learning for nursery and reception pupils, leading to exceptional outcomes in all areas of learning.
The school has recently introduced a new approach to teaching reading and phonics, which has been well-received. Staff have been trained to implement these new programs effectively, ensuring that children in early years develop strong foundational reading skills. Pupils are provided with reading materials that align with their phonics knowledge, and those who struggle receive targeted support to help them keep pace.
Safeguarding measures at Castle Carrock School are robust, with leaders fostering a strong safeguarding culture. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential safeguarding concerns, and they work closely with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and families. The curriculum also includes education on safety, including internet safety and awareness of risks associated with open water.
The local governing body is actively involved in the school, ensuring that leaders focus on curriculum improvement and that staff have the necessary resources and training. Staff report manageable workloads and appreciate the support provided for their well-being.
Overall, Castle Carrock School has made significant progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in education and pupil welfare. The school is well-positioned to continue its development, with clear areas identified for further enhancement in curriculum design to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential. The positive school culture, effective leadership, and strong community involvement contribute to a thriving educational environment for all pupils.
