Cleves Cross Primary and Nursery School Academy, located in Ferryhill, County Durham, was inspected by Ofsted on September 24 and 25, 2024. The school has been rated as good in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management, while personal development has been rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Christine Brentnall, leads the school, which is part of the Together Learning Partnership, overseen by CEO Alison Lazenby and a board of trustees chaired by John Muir.
The school has high aspirations for its pupils, fostering an environment where they can thrive. The personal development program is exceptional, emphasizing the importance of equality, diversity, and ambition for the future. Pupils engage in a variety of enriching experiences, including international exchanges, debating competitions, and community events, which contribute to their character development and prepare them to be positive citizens.
Behaviour in the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating respect for one another and understanding the importance of a conducive learning environment. Class charters help reinforce their rights and responsibilities, and the relationships between staff and pupils are warm and supportive. Pupils feel safe and well-supported, and they actively participate in clubs and activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
The school has established a high-quality curriculum across most subjects, with clear learning objectives and a logical progression of topics. However, there are areas where the implementation of the curriculum could be improved, particularly in ensuring that pupils have sufficient opportunities to practice and consolidate their learning before moving on to new material.
Reading and vocabulary development are prioritized, with a strong phonics program in place that enables children to learn to read effectively from an early age. Staff provide targeted support for pupils who need extra help, ensuring that they can catch up with their peers. The emphasis on vocabulary development allows pupils to communicate confidently and use complex language.
The early years foundation stage curriculum is well-structured, preparing children for their next educational steps. Learning activities are carefully chosen to develop essential skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. However, the outdoor learning area requires further development to enhance the overall learning experience for children.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff adapting lessons to meet their specific needs. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils participate in school life, including enrichment activities. Attendance is a priority, with successful initiatives in place to reduce persistent absence and support families.
Governance is effective, with trustees demonstrating a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They ensure that they possess the necessary skills to support school development, and staff report feeling well-supported and valued through various training opportunities.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. The inspection highlighted the need for ongoing training to enhance curriculum implementation and assessment practices, particularly in identifying gaps in pupils' knowledge and skills. Overall, Cleves Cross Primary and Nursery School Academy provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering their academic and personal growth.
