Wilthorpe Primary School is a vibrant and welcoming environment where students feel safe and enjoy learning. The school has made significant improvements since its last inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to Good. The leadership team, in collaboration with Every Child Matters Academy Trust, has focused on enhancing the quality of education and ensuring that all pupils thrive. The curriculum is well-planned and ambitious, fostering a love for learning among students. Pupils are engaged and motivated, demonstrating a strong desire to learn, particularly in reading, where they benefit from a structured phonics program that enables them to read quickly and fluently.
The school promotes positive behavior and attitudes, with clear expectations that pupils consistently meet. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and students feel confident that any issues will be addressed effectively. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, contributing to a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Parents and carers appreciate the high level of care provided, especially for those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school’s commitment to inclusion is evident, with tailored support ensuring that all pupils can participate fully in school life.
Early years provision is a notable strength, with children entering a stimulating environment that encourages curiosity and excitement for learning. The transition from Nursery to Reception is well-managed, preparing children effectively for their future education. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge progressively, allowing pupils to retain and apply what they have learned across subjects. Teachers employ effective questioning techniques to assess understanding during lessons, although there is room for improvement in the use of summative assessments to track learning over time.
While the school excels in many areas, there are still challenges to address. Some pupils do not receive sufficiently challenging opportunities to extend their learning, which can hinder their progress towards higher attainment levels. The school is aware of this and is actively working to ensure that all pupils are provided with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in more complex ways. The personal, social, and health education curriculum equips pupils with essential knowledge to navigate their world, fostering responsible citizenship and an understanding of healthy relationships.
The leadership team is committed to staff well-being, ensuring that workload is manageable and that staff feel supported. Parents have expressed positive feedback regarding recent improvements in communication and their involvement in school activities. The school has created a culture of openness and positivity, which is reflected in the feedback from the school community.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. The school continues to work on enhancing its practices to support all learners, particularly in ensuring that assessment strategies are consistently applied across all subjects. Overall, Wilthorpe Primary School is a good school that is dedicated to providing a high-quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for all its pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and the school is well-positioned to build on its successes in the future.
