Ward Green Primary School, located in Worsbrough Bridge, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, underwent its first graded inspection under the Education Act 2005 on September 24 and 25, 2024. The school is part of the Hoyland Common Academy Trust, with Heather Selby serving as the head of school and Tom Banham as the chief executive officer. The inspection results indicate that the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision are all rated as good, while personal development is rated as outstanding.
The school environment is characterized by a warm and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel valued and listened to. Staff members are dedicated to recognizing the unique strengths of each pupil, fostering a sense of belonging and support. Significant changes implemented over the past year have positively impacted both academic achievement and pupil behavior. High expectations are set for both academic performance and conduct, contributing to a calm and consistent learning environment. Pupils are encouraged to develop independence and are taught to think about their future aspirations.
The curriculum at Ward Green Primary is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils build knowledge and skills from Nursery through Year 6. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in the school’s life and curriculum, with recent training for staff enhancing the support provided. While pupils generally achieve well and are prepared for the next stage of their education, there are instances where teaching strategies are not consistently applied, which can hinder deeper learning.
The phonics curriculum is effectively implemented, with staff receiving regular training to deliver lessons with precision. Pupils who struggle with reading are identified and supported, although some may not receive the most effective assistance for their writing and spelling. The school promotes a strong reading culture, encouraging pupils to engage with a diverse range of literature.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with clear expectations established for conduct. When behavior does not align with these expectations, staff guide pupils through a reflective process to help them learn from their choices. The school also emphasizes the importance of attendance, which has improved over the past three years.
The personal development opportunities provided to pupils are exceptional, with initiatives like the pupil pledge program encouraging involvement in school life and the development of leadership skills. Pupils can participate in various roles, such as being ambassadors for different aspects of the school.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-planned and focuses on vocabulary development. Staff build strong relationships with children and families, creating positive educational experiences. Leaders at all levels share a unified vision for the school, with systems in place to assess strengths and areas for development.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school is encouraged to continue refining its teaching strategies to deepen pupils' knowledge and enhance support for lower-attaining readers in their writing. Overall, Ward Green Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
