St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Barnsley has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is part of St Mary’s Academy Trust, led by executive headteacher Lee Spencer and acting chief executive officer Tamara Gulliver. The inspection took place on 7 and 8 February 2024, with the school previously rated outstanding in its last inspection in 2013.
The school environment is characterized by a strong sense of pride among both staff and pupils. Staff warmly greet students in the playground, fostering a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils exhibit exceptional kindness and care towards one another, forming excellent relationships with their teachers and staff. The school emphasizes enjoyment and inclusion, ensuring that all pupils engage with a broad and ambitious curriculum tailored to their needs. This approach has led to good progress for pupils from their starting points, particularly in the early years, where children experience a stimulating and exploratory learning environment.
Parents and carers express appreciation for the high level of care and support provided, especially for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These students receive timely and precise assistance, contributing to their successful learning experiences. Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, with many taking pride in their leadership roles within the school. Pupils consistently encourage one another and demonstrate effective self-management of their behaviour. Many express their love for attending school, with one pupil stating a desire for their future children to attend due to the school's quality.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is ambitious and bespoke, developed in collaboration with the trust. It is delivered consistently well, with teachers well-informed about what to teach and when. This structured approach allows pupils to enjoy their learning and face daily challenges with enthusiasm. In the early years, detailed planning and a well-adapted learning environment ensure that children are well-prepared for Year 1.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a well-structured phonics program in place for Reception and Year 1. Staff are skilled in teaching phonics, enabling pupils to learn sounds quickly and read books that match their learning levels. Support is provided for those who struggle with reading, allowing them to catch up effectively. Older pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for reading, discussing their thoughts on various texts and engaging in reading activities across all classes.
Pupils show a deep understanding of their learning across subjects, confidently discussing topics in mathematics, history, and art. Teachers utilize a detailed curriculum to plan lessons that build knowledge over time, revisiting prior learning to reinforce understanding. However, there are opportunities for improvement in developing higher-level thinking and reasoning skills in some subjects. While ongoing assessment is effective, end-of-sequence assessments could be better utilized to identify gaps in learning.
The school fosters an environment where personal development is integral to its culture. Pupils model respect and tolerance, actively participating in leadership opportunities. They engage in discussions about fundamental British values and demonstrate a strong understanding of different faiths and cultures, preparing them well for life in modern Britain.
The school maintains good relationships with the local community, and parents appreciate the efforts of the staff in providing a secure and nurturing environment for their children. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School is a supportive and effective educational institution, with a commitment to continuous improvement in its teaching and learning practices.
