Trinity Croft CofE Primary Academy in Rotherham has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The school provides a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Positive relationships between pupils and staff are evident, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of the families they serve. Parents and carers express high regard for the school, highlighting its role in the community. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that pupils receive a high-quality education through an ambitious curriculum that includes various additional opportunities for engagement and responsibility.
Pupils are encouraged to take on roles such as school councillors and playground buddies, which they enjoy and take pride in. The school has established high expectations for behavior, and pupils respond positively, adhering to the school's learning code. They exhibit good behavior, politeness, and a calm demeanor throughout the school. Pupils understand the rules and routines, recognizing their fairness, and they are equipped to differentiate between bullying and normal conflicts, with teachers providing effective support in resolving issues.
Reading is a priority at Trinity Croft, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for literature from the early years. The school collaborates with the local library to ensure that all children have access to a variety of books. Phonics lessons are well-structured and engaging, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Daily reading lessons continue into Year 2 and throughout key stage 2, with teachers carefully planning lessons to promote fluency and comprehension across diverse texts.
In addition to reading, the school has a well-thought-out curriculum in subjects like mathematics and history, ensuring that knowledge is built progressively from Nursery to Year 6. Teachers present lessons clearly, encouraging active participation and collaboration among pupils. Vocabulary development is prioritized, enabling pupils to articulate their thoughts effectively. Procedures are in place to identify gaps in learning, particularly in reading and mathematics, allowing for timely support for those at risk of falling behind. However, there is a need for leaders to establish consistent assessments in foundation subjects to identify specific learning gaps.
Pupils with special educational needs are well supported, with teachers employing various strategies to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers. The school promotes a strong understanding of equality and acceptance, with pupils expressing that everyone is welcomed regardless of their differences. The Christian ethos of the school, along with lessons on British values, fosters a sense of community and moral education.
The leadership team is effective, with staff feeling supported and valued. There is a collaborative culture that enhances professional development. Parents appreciate the approachability of staff and the responsiveness of leaders to concerns. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address potential issues. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including online safety, and feel confident in approaching adults with concerns.
To improve, the school needs to develop a consistent approach to identifying learning gaps in foundation subjects, ensuring that assessments are aligned with expected knowledge at each stage. This will enable leaders to better understand what pupils need to learn next and tailor their support accordingly. Overall, Trinity Croft CofE Primary Academy continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong foundation for future growth and development.
