Stocksfield Avenue Primary School, located in Fenham, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher David Lynch, the school is part of the Smart Multi-Academy Trust, which provides additional support and oversight through its chief executive officer Colin Lofthouse and a board of trustees chaired by Charles Christie. The school prides itself on being inclusive, fostering a rich multicultural environment where all students feel welcomed. Strong relationships among pupils, staff, and parents are fundamental to the school's success.
The curriculum at Stocksfield Avenue Primary School offers a wide range of opportunities for pupils to explore their talents beyond academic subjects. The school emphasizes experiential learning, with notable programs such as a steel pan band that recently performed at the Vertu Arena. Pupils engage in various activities, including samba dancing linked to their geography studies on Brazil, and Year 6 students participate in an outdoor education residential visit to Lockerbie. These experiences broaden students' perspectives and enhance their educational journey.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with pupils displaying happiness, politeness, and respect. Classrooms are characterized by a calm and purposeful atmosphere, allowing for effective learning without disruptions. High expectations for student achievement are evident, and most pupils demonstrate good progress throughout the curriculum. Leadership roles and responsibilities are encouraged, with pupils taking on positions such as librarians and school councillors. The school also offers a diverse array of extracurricular clubs and activities, including chess, gardening, and badminton, which help cultivate students' interests.
Leaders at the school are attuned to the needs of the local community and have proactively identified areas for improvement. They have implemented a new, ambitious curriculum tailored to the school's context, ensuring a clear progression of knowledge and skills. For instance, in geography, students learn positional language and map journeys in early years, preparing them for more complex concepts in later stages. A new phonics program has been introduced, with all staff trained to ensure consistency across the school. This initiative has positively impacted pupil outcomes, particularly in early reading.
Pupils exhibit a love for reading, frequently visiting the refurbished school library and engaging in storytime with their teachers. The school has carefully selected a diverse range of quality texts for students to explore throughout their education. Additionally, the school has conducted a thorough review of its provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), leading to improved identification and support systems. However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring that all pupils can complete learning tasks that match their reading levels and understanding.
The school effectively prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, teaching them about world religions and celebrating various cultural festivals. Staff members appreciate the strategies implemented to reduce their workload, fostering a supportive team environment. The board of trustees and governors maintain a strategic oversight of the school's strengths and areas for development, regularly visiting to monitor progress and hold leaders accountable.
The safeguarding arrangements at Stocksfield Avenue Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. While the school has many strengths, there is a need for improvement in the consistent use of assessment information to adapt the curriculum for all pupils, particularly those with SEND. Overall, Stocksfield Avenue Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and the well-being of its students.
