West Park Primary School, located in Hartlepool, Cleveland, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 24 and 25, 2024. The headteacher, Mandy Hall, leads the school, which is part of the Ad Astra Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Andy Brown OBE and a board of trustees chaired by Chris Simmons. The school has a strong community spirit, with pupils demonstrating respect and kindness towards each other and visitors. They are eager to learn and engage with others, contributing to a positive school environment.
Pupils at West Park Primary School exhibit exemplary behavior and are quick to settle into their learning. The school maintains high academic standards, and students perform well in key stage tests and assessments. The curriculum is designed to be broad and engaging, with frequent opportunities for pupils to revisit previous learning, which aids in knowledge retention. For instance, Year 5 students effectively apply their understanding of area in mathematics to grasp the concept of perimeter.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs for guitar, gardening, and art, which pupils enjoy. Leadership roles are also available, with pupils taking their responsibilities seriously, such as acting as play leaders during lunchtime. This involvement fosters a sense of community and support among students, particularly for younger peers.
West Park Primary School prioritizes the well-being of its pupils, ensuring they feel safe and cared for. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be dealt with promptly. The supportive environment extends to the academic realm, where pupils with special educational needs receive high-quality assistance, allowing them to catch up quickly if they fall behind.
The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, with a stimulating learning environment that encourages exploration and development of motor skills. Children engage in various activities, such as using balance equipment and participating in role-play scenarios in the ‘sunflower café,’ which enhances their social and practical skills.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Some foundation subjects lack clearly defined knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire, which can hinder their progression through the curriculum. The school is encouraged to continue reviewing its curriculum to ensure clarity in its educational goals.
The personal development curriculum is comprehensive, with pupils participating in trips that enhance their cultural awareness. They learn about different faiths and communities, fostering a sense of inclusivity. The school council plays an active role in gathering student opinions and implementing changes, such as introducing new games during break times.
Staff at West Park Primary School feel supported in their roles, contributing to a positive work environment. The school prioritizes staff well-being, which in turn benefits the pupils. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is a top priority.
Overall, West Park Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive community, high academic expectations, and a commitment to the personal development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all students.
