Monteney Primary School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 28th and 29th of March 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for its pupils. The leadership team prioritizes the well-being of students, families, and the wider community, fostering a culture of respect for individual differences among pupils. The behavior of students is commendable, with high expectations set by staff leading to calm and orderly conduct in lessons and during playtimes. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils express confidence that any issues would be promptly addressed by adults.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, encouraging pupils to engage in clubs and sports, which contribute to their personal development. Older students are given responsibilities that prepare them for active citizenship. However, despite efforts to promote regular attendance, some pupils struggle to attend school consistently, which impacts their academic achievement. The curriculum is broad and well-planned, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. Leaders have invested time in ensuring that the curriculum is coherent from early years through to Year 6, particularly in subjects like mathematics and reading, where assessment practices are effectively used to identify and address learning gaps.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the wider curriculum where assessment strategies are not as well developed. For instance, in subjects like art, teachers may not consistently identify gaps in pupils' learning. Additionally, when starting new units, teachers may lack clarity on the specific learning objectives for pupils. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are included in the same curriculum as their peers, with adaptations made to meet their needs. Regular checks are conducted, but there is room for improvement in defining their next steps in learning.
Reading is a priority at Monteney Primary, with a new phonics scheme introduced in September 2021. Teachers are well-trained in teaching reading, and pupils are provided with books that match their phonetic knowledge. Early years children receive daily phonics lessons, which help them develop strong foundational reading skills. The early years curriculum is engaging, promoting curiosity and focus among children, while also enhancing their communication skills and vocabulary.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is in place, teaching pupils about health and relationships. However, there are gaps in pupils' understanding of different faiths and cultures, and while fundamental British values are promoted, there is a need for deeper exploration of concepts like individual liberty and the rule of law. The leadership team fosters a strong sense of teamwork among staff, with high morale reported. Governors and trustees are actively involved in the school, ensuring that improvement plans are effectively implemented.
The safeguarding arrangements at Monteney Primary are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established. Staff receive regular training and updates, and concerns about pupil safety are promptly addressed. However, some safeguarding records require improvement to accurately reflect actions taken by leaders. Overall, while the school has many strengths, it must focus on enhancing assessment practices in the wider curriculum, improving attendance, and deepening pupils' understanding of British values and cultural diversity to further support their development and readiness for life in modern Britain.
