Airy Hill Primary School, located in Whitby, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2022. The school is well-regarded for its outdoor spaces, which pupils enjoy immensely. They express enthusiasm for the adventure trail, large field, chill-out benches, and garden project. The teaching staff is praised for their ability to motivate students to do their best, providing clear explanations and necessary support during lessons. This approach fosters a strong work ethic among pupils, who are aware that they may be called upon to answer questions at any time, encouraging them to remain attentive and engaged. Students find learning enjoyable, particularly highlighting outdoor learning experiences and unique projects, such as launching a teddy bear into space.
The school’s rules are straightforward, allowing pupils to communicate their discomfort effectively before conflicts arise. This proactive approach contributes to a positive atmosphere where students feel safe and supported. They report that bullying is not an issue, a sentiment echoed by the inspector. Anti-bullying ambassadors play a crucial role in monitoring and addressing any concerns during break times. The school prioritizes mental health, with pupils using a ‘feelings peg’ system to express their emotions, ensuring that they feel heard and valued.
In terms of academic performance, subjects like mathematics and design technology are well-structured, with a clear identification of essential knowledge. Regular assessments help ensure that pupils retain what they have learned, facilitating connections between new and prior knowledge. This systematic approach results in improved retention and understanding among students. However, the leadership acknowledges that the curriculum in some areas, such as music and physical education, requires further clarity and development. They are actively working to enhance these subjects to ensure a cohesive learning experience across the curriculum.
Reading is a significant focus at Airy Hill Primary School, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for stories from an early age. Daily phonics instruction is consistent and effective, enabling pupils to blend sounds and read unfamiliar words with confidence. The school encourages regular reading at home, providing appropriately challenging books to support fluency and expression. The nursery and reception classes exhibit a vibrant learning environment, where children are engaged and well-prepared for the transition to key stage one.
Teachers conduct ongoing assessments to identify gaps in knowledge, allowing for timely intervention and support for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This responsive approach ensures that every child receives the assistance they need to succeed. The positive attitude towards learning is evident, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and a commitment to their studies, resulting in a disruption-free classroom environment.
The school also emphasizes the importance of developing well-rounded citizens. Pupils are encouraged to respect the rights of others and challenge stereotypes related to gender, race, or religion. The school celebrates the achievements of all students, particularly those with special educational needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive community. Leaders are dedicated to raising aspirations and ambitions among pupils, and their efforts are yielding positive results.
Staff members appreciate the support they receive from school leaders, particularly regarding their well-being and workload management. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with regular training ensuring that all staff are equipped to identify and address any concerns. This vigilance contributes to a safe learning environment where pupils are educated on various safety topics, including road safety and online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the planning and sequencing of the curriculum in subjects like music and physical education. Leaders are aware of these challenges and are actively working to enhance the curriculum to ensure that learning builds progressively from reception through to year six. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is on a positive trajectory to further enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
