St Alban's Church of England Primary School, located in Wickersley, Rotherham, recently underwent an Ofsted inspection in February 2020 and received a rating of Good across all key areas. The school caters to children aged 3 to 11 and has a strong sense of belonging and appreciation among its pupils. The Christian ethos of the school plays a significant role in fostering spiritual, cultural, and moral development, with students demonstrating respect and politeness towards others.
The quality of education at St Alban's is commendable, with pupils excelling in phonics, writing, and mathematics, often surpassing national averages. The curriculum is well-structured, and leaders effectively plan and sequence learning. New programs for subjects like art and history are being implemented to ensure teachers know what to teach and when. Leaders are ambitious for all pupils, adapting the curriculum to meet diverse needs, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs.
Reading is a top priority at St Alban's, with appealing reading areas in classrooms and enthusiastic staff who read to pupils regularly. Early years provision is strong, with children receiving excellent care from nurturing staff. Phonics instruction begins early, allowing children to develop a solid foundation in reading and writing.
While the inspection highlighted some areas for improvement, such as clearer sequencing of vocabulary and content in teachers' planning, the school's safeguarding arrangements are effective. Staff receive regular training to protect pupils from harm, and a new online system for recording incidents is helping track issues more systematically. Pupils report feeling safe and well looked after, with education on staying safe while using technology.
In conclusion, St Alban's Church of England Primary School has shown a strong commitment to providing a nurturing and effective educational environment. With a focus on continuous improvement and a clear vision for the future, the school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas identified for development. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the hard work of the staff, the supportive community, and the dedication to fostering a love of learning among pupils.
