Middlestown Primary Academy, located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 15-16, 2019. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils exhibit excellent manners and a strong sense of community. They are eager to assist others and take pride in making newcomers feel included. The positive atmosphere is reinforced by the warm interactions between pupils and staff, with students routinely holding doors open for one another and adults.
Teachers at the academy maintain high expectations for student effort, and pupils respond positively, demonstrating enthusiasm for their learning. The curriculum is designed to systematically build knowledge, with a focus on local history and significant events. Leaders prioritize reading, and pupils show a keen interest in the books read to them, often linking these texts to their studies in other subjects. For instance, reading The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas enhances Year Six pupils' understanding of the Second World War.
The school emphasizes the development of social skills through community engagement, allowing pupils to interact with elderly residents and learn about important societal issues such as homelessness and racism. This engagement fosters empathy and mature perspectives among students. Additionally, various leadership roles within the school, such as school councillors and eco councillors, empower pupils to contribute positively to their environment.
Staff collaboration is a strong point at Middlestown Primary Academy, with teachers expressing satisfaction in their work environment and demonstrating effective teamwork. This collaborative spirit is mirrored in the pupils' interactions, as they work well together and support one another.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Although the curriculum is well-structured, some guidance provided to teachers lacks detail, which can lead to deviations in pupils' learning. Teachers are encouraged to challenge more able pupils further, as there are instances where they complete tasks that do not fully engage their capabilities before moving on to more complex activities.
Phonics instruction is generally effective, yet some pupils struggle with reading due to insufficient practice with appropriate materials. The school recognizes the need for better support for these students, ensuring that the books used for practice align with their phonics knowledge. The early years curriculum is effective, preparing children for Year One through engaging activities that promote independence and confidence.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive adequate support, allowing them to learn alongside their peers. Leaders are committed to providing enriching experiences beyond the classroom, with a variety of clubs and activities available to students. The school also emphasizes the importance of charitable work, helping pupils understand the impact of their contributions.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective arrangements in place to ensure pupil safety. The school fosters strong relationships between staff and students, creating an environment where pupils feel secure and supported. Overall, while Middlestown Primary Academy is a good school, there are areas for growth, particularly in enhancing reading support for struggling pupils and refining instructional guidance for teachers. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and the school is well-positioned to build on its successes.
