Flanderwell Primary School, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on January 23 and 24, 2024. The school has maintained its overall judgement of outstanding, although evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a different outcome. The headteacher, Adam Cornes, leads the school, which is part of The Diocese of Sheffield Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Andrew Waldron and a board of trustees chaired by Huw Thomas.
The school is known for its inclusive and caring environment, characterized by strong relationships between staff and pupils. Staff members are well-acquainted with the students, allowing them to effectively support their welfare. Pupils express trust in the adults to address any issues promptly, contributing to a low incidence of bullying. Behavior among pupils is exemplary; they are polite, courteous, and respond positively to the high expectations set by the school. This positive attitude is reflected in their engagement during lessons, where they typically achieve well across the curriculum, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Flanderwell Primary School offers a broad and ambitious curriculum, with careful consideration given to the essential knowledge pupils should acquire. This approach enables most students to build on their existing knowledge effectively. However, in some subjects, clarity regarding the specific knowledge to be taught and the timing of instruction is lacking, which can hinder the depth of understanding for some pupils. Overall, teaching is effective, with teachers presenting new concepts clearly and using assessments to gauge pupil retention, although there are areas where assessment practices could be improved.
Reading is a priority at Flanderwell, with phonics instruction beginning in the Reception class. Staff are well-trained to deliver the phonics curriculum, ensuring that pupils, including those with SEND, progress successfully. The school closely monitors pupils' phonics knowledge and provides targeted support to address any learning gaps. Early years children are highly engaged in a well-structured curriculum that fosters their development and prepares them for future learning.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with SEND, providing tailored support that allows them to learn alongside their peers. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of school rules and the importance of being responsible citizens, showing determination and self-confidence in their education. Attendance is generally good, with staff working collaboratively with families to emphasize its significance.
Flanderwell Primary School has developed a comprehensive personal development program rooted in its core values. Pupils embrace these values, which promote aspiration and respect, and they gain a thorough understanding of safety and health. The school offers a variety of educational visits and extracurricular activities that enrich the pupils' learning experiences.
Trustees fulfill their statutory duties effectively, holding school leaders accountable for the quality of education. They possess an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff express pride in their work environment and appreciate the support provided by leaders regarding workload and professional development. Parents and carers overwhelmingly support the school, reflecting a positive community perception.
The safeguarding arrangements at Flanderwell Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school should focus on refining its curriculum in certain subjects to ensure that knowledge is clearly defined and that assessment practices are fully developed to identify gaps in understanding. This will enable pupils to build progressively on their prior knowledge and achieve their full potential.
