Dunswell Primary School, located in Hull, East Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school demonstrates a positive environment where pupils are happy and eager to learn. The staff are approachable, and pupils feel secure in expressing their concerns, knowing they will receive support. The leadership team has high expectations for student achievement, particularly in English and mathematics, although there are areas in the curriculum that require further development to ensure all subjects meet ambitious goals.
Pupils report feeling safe and indicate that instances of bullying are rare, with effective measures in place to address any issues that may arise. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with pupils engaging positively during playtime and respecting one another's opinions. They appreciate the recognition they receive for good behavior, which fosters a supportive atmosphere.
The school excels in promoting a love for reading, with early reading initiatives in place that have been well-received. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that all pupils, including those who may struggle, receive the necessary support to become proficient readers. The leadership has also recognized the impact of the pandemic on learning and has implemented strategies to help pupils build a solid foundation in mathematics.
Dunswell Primary offers a broad curriculum, with subjects like history, geography, and physical education being well-structured and sequenced. However, some foundation subjects still require development to clarify the specific knowledge pupils need to acquire. The leadership team is aware of this and is working on enhancing the curriculum to ensure consistency across all subjects.
In the early years, children are well-prepared for future learning, benefiting from a stimulating environment and effective role models. The staff's commitment to supporting children's development is evident, and children generally transition smoothly into Year 1.
The school is dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The coordinator works closely with teachers and parents to ensure that these pupils can achieve their goals. Regular sessions are held to support parents, fostering a collaborative approach to education.
Pupils demonstrate respectful and tolerant attitudes, learning about various cultures and the importance of British values. They are educated on safety issues relevant to their community, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility.
Governors are well-informed and actively engage with school leaders to monitor the quality of education. They ask insightful questions to ensure that the information they receive is accurate and reflective of the school's performance. The leadership team is mindful of staff workload and prioritizes their well-being, which contributes to a motivated workforce.
The safeguarding arrangements at Dunswell Primary are effective, with pupils feeling secure and well-informed about safety measures. Staff receive regular training to recognize potential risks, and there is a robust system for reporting concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum planning needs to be strengthened to ensure that all subjects are delivered effectively, allowing pupils to retain and build upon their knowledge. Additionally, the impact of recent curriculum developments on pupil progress requires closer monitoring to ensure that the needs of all students are met. Overall, Dunswell Primary School is a nurturing environment that supports the growth and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement in educational outcomes.