Worsbrough Bank End Primary School, located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 14 and 15 September 2021. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to high expectations for all pupils, starting from their early years in Nursery. Children are encouraged to focus on their learning and adhere to established routines, which fosters a respectful and orderly environment as they progress through their education.
The school promotes a set of core values known as the ‘Bank End behaviours,’ which include respect, resilience, readiness, and responsibility. These values are well understood by pupils, who exhibit politeness towards teachers and peers, and transition between activities in a sensible manner. The positive atmosphere is further enhanced by a variety of after-school clubs that engage pupils in activities such as cooking, football, and sewing, which are highly appreciated by both parents and students.
Safety is a priority at Worsbrough Bank End Primary School. Pupils feel secure and are aware that they can approach staff with any concerns, including issues related to bullying or inappropriate language. Staff members take these concerns seriously and address them promptly, contributing to a supportive school environment. The sense of community is strong, with families feeling heard and supported by the school staff. The ‘Bank End Friends’ group collaborates with school leaders to raise funds and provide valuable insights to enhance the curriculum.
The leadership team is aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, and they have developed clear plans to address these. Staff members work collaboratively, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment to the school’s goals. The curriculum is well-structured, detailing the knowledge and skills required for each year group, starting from Nursery. This approach allows pupils to revisit and build upon their knowledge as they progress through the school, with thematic connections across subjects, such as history.
Teachers are mindful of the importance of recalling prior knowledge before introducing new concepts, which helps pupils understand their learning journey. However, there are instances where some teachers may lack the necessary subject knowledge in certain areas, leading to missed opportunities for addressing misconceptions or deepening understanding. This can result in pupils being unclear about previously taught material.
Reading is a key focus for the school, with leaders recognizing its significance in pupils’ development. Teachers and teaching assistants are trained to match reading materials to the phonics knowledge of pupils, ensuring they feel successful in their reading endeavors. A new phonics program has been introduced to further support early reading skills, and leaders are keen to enhance reading enthusiasm among older pupils by implementing engaging activities, such as daily storytime.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to classroom routines, learning how to behave and use equipment appropriately. Staff actively teach new vocabulary, which children incorporate into their conversations. Writing skills are also emphasized, with pupils learning to hold pencils correctly and write their names early on.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effectively provided, with teachers utilizing a range of resources to aid learning and retention of the curriculum. When pupils struggle to remember information, additional support is offered. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to ensure that pupils receive specialized assistance when necessary.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior, focusing on their learning and understanding the importance of being prepared to learn. While a small number of pupils may disrupt the learning environment, leaders are aware of this and have trained staff to help maintain a calm and focused atmosphere.
The partnership between trust leaders and governors is effective, with governors actively monitoring the curriculum and ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders work diligently to support families and engage with external agencies when needed.
Overall, Worsbrough Bank End Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on community, safety, and academic achievement. The school is committed to ongoing improvement and ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive.
