Clifton With Rawcliffe Primary School, located in York, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6 and 7, 2021. The school fosters an environment where pupils thrive, feeling happy and engaged in both play and learning. The atmosphere is described as warm and welcoming, with parents noting the friendly nature of the school despite its larger size. School leaders, including governors, are committed to developing pupils' character through various activities, including clubs and residential trips. Pupils are educated on the importance of maintaining their physical and emotional health, and they engage in learning about nature through forest skills lessons. The school offers a wide range of activities that pupils enjoy, contributing to their overall positive experience.
Pupils are well-prepared for secondary school by the time they leave Year 6, with most demonstrating the personal and social skills that leaders aim to instill. The conduct of pupils is exemplary; they are polite and courteous to one another. In the early years, clear routines help pupils understand expectations, while older pupils exhibit focus and concentration during lessons. Teachers effectively manage classroom dynamics, allowing for both quiet work and collaborative discussions.
The school excels in providing a broad curriculum, ensuring that pupils study all subjects outlined in the national curriculum. Leaders and teachers have high expectations for all pupils, particularly in English and mathematics, where most meet the required standards by Year 6. Curriculum plans are in place for all subjects, although some subjects are more developed than others. For instance, science has a clear outline of what should be taught and when, while other subjects require further detail to support teachers effectively.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with pupils progressing to more challenging texts as they advance through the grades. They acquire new vocabulary from books read by teachers and incorporate these words into their writing. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with books matched to the sounds being taught, leading to good progress for most pupils. However, there is a need for a central plan to support pupils who struggle with phonics, as some may find themselves in lessons that are too advanced for their current level.
In writing, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the sequence of learning for younger children. Some struggle with letter formation, and these issues can persist into later stages of their education. Leaders need to establish a clear progression for early writing skills and support teachers in addressing misconceptions as they arise.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with leaders maintaining precise information about those requiring additional help. Staff are trained to provide appropriate support, and plans for these pupils are reviewed regularly, ensuring they achieve well and feel successful.
The safeguarding arrangements at Clifton With Rawcliffe Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns about pupil safety. Pupils feel secure and confident in discussing any issues with staff, knowing they will be supported.
To enhance the quality of education further, leaders must ensure that all subjects have detailed curriculum plans that outline what should be taught and when, promoting consistent progress across the board. Additionally, addressing the foundational skills in early writing will help prevent difficulties from carrying over into later years. Overall, Clifton With Rawcliffe Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
