Wath Central Primary School, located in Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on May 4 and 5, 2022, and the school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005. The school is an academy and serves a mixed-gender population of 432 pupils aged three to eleven. The leadership team has established a nurturing environment where pupils feel valued and safe, contributing to their pride in being part of ‘Team Central.’
The school prioritizes the well-being of its students, fostering a culture where pupils are listened to and supported. Leaders have a clear vision to ensure that every child is recognized as unique, and they strive to provide tailored learning experiences that connect pupils to their local community and the wider world. The curriculum is designed to be rich and challenging, with various opportunities for pupils to explore their interests, including music, sports, and robotics.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with high expectations set by teachers. Most pupils respond positively, although some instances of inappropriate behaviour and bullying have been reported, albeit infrequently. The school is working to improve attendance, as a small number of pupils are regularly absent, which affects their learning experience.
The curriculum is continuously reviewed and improved by senior leaders, who collaborate with staff to ensure it remains engaging and relevant. The school has implemented a new phonics programme that has proven effective in supporting early reading skills. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, and pupils are encouraged to read at home with books that match their learning levels.
In the early years, children enjoy their time in Nursery and Reception, with staff forming strong relationships with families. However, there are inconsistencies in the implementation of the curriculum, and some staff do not fully utilize the learning environment to support children’s development.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including art, British sign language, and various clubs that promote responsibility among pupils. The leadership team works closely with the governing body and the trust to ensure effective planning for improvement and professional development opportunities for staff.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff are well-trained to identify and address safeguarding concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. The school emphasizes teaching pupils about online safety and revisits important topics as needed.
Despite the positive aspects, the school recognizes areas for improvement. Some curriculum plans lack detailed knowledge requirements, which can hinder pupils' ability to build on their learning as they progress through the school. Additionally, the implementation of the early years curriculum needs to be more consistent, and leaders must ensure that all staff understand how to effectively deliver the curriculum.
Overall, Wath Central Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils, while also acknowledging the need for ongoing development in certain areas.
