Kenton Bar Primary School, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was inspected on 15-16 October 2019 and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its establishment as an academy in November 2016, particularly under the leadership of the current headteacher, who joined in November 2017. Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school, appreciating the structured environment and the efforts made by teachers to ensure lessons are engaging and well-organized. Many students feel that the school has improved considerably in recent years, and they value the opportunities to socialize at breakfast club and participate in various after-school activities, including sports and clubs focused on film and musical theatre.
The school has established clear rules and expectations regarding behavior, leading to a calm and orderly atmosphere. Pupils report that incidents of bullying are rare, and they trust teachers to address any concerns effectively. The positive behavior management strategies implemented by staff have contributed to a significant improvement in overall conduct within the school. The curriculum is designed to provide memorable experiences, often starting with trips to interesting locations, which helps to engage students and enhance their learning.
While the quality of education is generally good, there are areas for improvement, particularly in challenging the most able pupils. Although the curriculum planning in subjects like English and mathematics is thorough, some of the most capable students do not receive sufficient challenges to extend their learning. Teachers are encouraged to develop strategies that push these pupils to achieve their full potential, particularly in writing and problem-solving tasks.
The school places a high priority on reading, with systematic phonics instruction beginning in the nursery. This approach has led to rising standards in literacy, with many pupils making rapid progress. The headteacher has invested in new reading materials that are well-received by students, and plans for further staff training in literacy are underway. The commitment to improving reading skills is evident in the relentless support provided by teachers, who strive to ensure that no pupil falls behind.
In the early years, the quality of education is also rated as good. Children entering the nursery often have under-developed skills, but they benefit from targeted support that focuses on language and physical development. Teachers adapt activities to meet individual needs, ensuring that children are engaged and making progress.
Safeguarding measures at the school are effective, with clear policies in place to protect pupils. Staff receive regular training and are vigilant in their responsibilities to ensure a safe environment. The school has demonstrated its ability to respond effectively to incidents, maintaining a focus on pupil safety.
Overall, Kenton Bar Primary School has made commendable strides in improving educational standards and fostering a positive school culture. The leadership team has worked diligently to restore confidence among parents and staff, and the community's trust has been regained. While there are areas that require further development, particularly in challenging the most able pupils and enhancing subject-specific knowledge in areas like art and music, the school is on a positive trajectory. The commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of pupils is evident in the school's practices and ethos.
