Stramongate Primary School in Kendal, Cumbria, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 28 and 29, 2020. The school is committed to ensuring that pupils enjoy their educational experience, which is evident in its motto, learning is fun. The staff at Stramongate provide a diverse range of engaging activities, such as Forest Friday for Reception children, allowing them to explore nature within the school grounds.
Pupils actively contribute to school life, with older students taking on various leadership roles, assisting in the school office, and supporting younger peers during playtimes. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and caring among the students. The school emphasizes the importance of health and well-being, offering numerous sporting activities, including rugby, gymnastics, and hockey. The daily dash running sessions and outdoor adventures like canoeing and camping are particularly popular among older pupils.
In terms of academic performance, Stramongate Primary School has demonstrated impressive results. In 2019, pupils' achievements in reading, writing, and mathematics surpassed national averages at the end of key stage two. The school has also made strides in developing its wider curriculum, ensuring that pupils excel across various subjects.
Feedback from pupils indicates that bullying is infrequent, and they feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff. The school environment is one where pupils feel heard and supported, contributing to their overall well-being.
Mathematics instruction at Stramongate is effective, with teachers providing ample practice in written calculations and ensuring that pupils become fluent in their mathematical skills. However, some pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are not progressing as well as they could, primarily due to activities that do not always build on their prior learning.
Reading is another area of strength, with teachers sharing a variety of books and stories, fostering a love for reading among pupils. The school has achieved above-average results in phonics screening, and those who struggle with reading receive effective support to help them catch up. Nonetheless, there are inconsistencies in matching reading books to the phonics being taught, which can hinder progress for some pupils.
The wider curriculum has seen improvements, with leaders enhancing curriculum plans to ensure lessons build on previous learning. Science lessons are particularly engaging, with pupils conducting investigations that reinforce their understanding of concepts.
Attendance at Stramongate has improved, although some pupils, including those with SEND, still miss school frequently, which can impact their learning. The school offers a variety of enriching experiences, including outdoor activities and cultural education, preparing pupils well for their future education.
Pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school, moving calmly and working cooperatively in lessons. They engage in charitable activities, such as growing food in the school's secret garden and participating in community service projects.
Staff at Stramongate feel valued and supported, with leaders taking their workload into account. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. Staff receive regular training to recognize and respond to potential risks, and pupils are educated about safety, including online risks.
To further improve, the school needs to address the progress of pupils with SEND in mathematics and ensure that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils' phonics knowledge. Consistency in phonics teaching is also necessary. Leaders are working on enhancing assessment activities to better evaluate the curriculum's effectiveness and continue efforts to improve attendance among pupils who are frequently absent.
