Barnby Dun Primary Academy, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on July 12 and 13, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality education, as evidenced by the positive feedback from pupils regarding their learning experiences. Pupils are engaged in their studies, showing enthusiasm for the subjects they explore, particularly history and geography. They appreciate the opportunity to learn about significant historical figures and events, as well as current affairs, which fosters a broader understanding of the world around them.
The school has made notable improvements in addressing bullying, with pupils reporting that incidents are infrequent and that teachers handle any issues effectively. This has contributed to a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable and secure. The school promotes a culture of learning from mistakes, encouraging pupils to embrace challenges and strive for success. However, some pupils experience difficulties with the work assigned to them, indicating that the support provided may not always be sufficient.
Barnby Dun Primary Academy has implemented a well-structured curriculum that allows pupils to acquire new knowledge and develop critical thinking skills. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to help pupils make meaningful connections across various subjects. For instance, in geography, students learn about the characteristics of major European cities and compare their development. The teaching methods employed are generally effective, enabling most pupils to retain and apply what they have learned. In the early years, the curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that children grasp essential concepts that will support their future learning.
The school has also made strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers and assistants adapt their teaching strategies to ensure that these pupils can access the curriculum. However, there are instances where the implementation of these adaptations could be improved, as some pupils with SEND struggle to keep up with their peers. Additional training for staff in this area is necessary to enhance the effectiveness of support provided.
Reading has been a focal point for improvement, with new phonics teaching approaches being introduced. Pupils practice blending sounds and reading texts that challenge their comprehension skills. The assessment strategies in place help identify gaps in pupils' phonics knowledge, allowing for targeted support. While reading has received significant attention, writing instruction has not been as comprehensive, leading to a limited range of writing styles being practiced by pupils. The school needs to review its writing curriculum to ensure that students develop their narrative writing skills alongside their non-fiction writing.
Behaviour in the classroom is commendable, with pupils demonstrating respect for their teachers and peers. Attendance rates are high, reflecting the positive school environment. Staff are working to enhance their skills in supporting pupils with additional behavioural needs, and further training is planned to strengthen this aspect of their practice. The school has updated its bullying policy to provide clearer guidance on identifying and addressing bullying incidents, resulting in more consistent responses from staff.
The curriculum for personal, social, and emotional education has been improved, focusing on building healthy relationships and understanding bullying. The school also emphasizes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural education, particularly through its religious education program, which provides pupils with insights into various belief systems. Pupils engage in discussions about ethical issues during class, fostering critical thinking and reflection.
The multi-academy trust has played a supportive role in enhancing communication with parents, establishing a parent advisory board to gather feedback. While efforts have been made to engage all parents, there is recognition that more work is needed to reach those who are less involved with the school community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving training that addresses local safeguarding issues. The designated safeguarding lead thoroughly checks concerns and refers them to the local authority when necessary. Overall, Barnby Dun Primary Academy has made significant progress in various areas, but there are still opportunities for improvement, particularly in supporting pupils with SEND and enhancing the writing curriculum. The school is well-positioned to continue its development and provide an excellent educational experience for all its pupils.
