West Cliff Primary School, located in Whitby, North Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection in April 2022. The school demonstrates high expectations for its pupils, who are noted for their politeness and good behavior in various settings, including lessons and during playtime. The school has established a strong culture of inclusivity, particularly through its specialized support for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. The staff are described as patient and skilled, providing effective support to those who require additional help.
Pupils at West Cliff are well-informed about online safety, which is crucial given their use of school iPads. The school’s remote learning capabilities were particularly beneficial during the national lockdowns, ensuring that all pupils could continue their education. The school promotes character development through initiatives like the tame a tiger program, where pupils and staff set personal challenges to enhance self-confidence and resilience. A variety of extracurricular clubs are available, catering for different interests and ensuring that all pupils can participate.
The school utilizes a double-decker bus, named Dorothy, for educational purposes, which adds a unique element to the learning experience. However, while the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, some subjects are still in the process of being fully developed. Leaders are aware that the previous curriculum was not adequately meeting the needs of the pupils and have begun to redesign it. Most subjects are now planned and sequenced effectively, allowing for a coherent progression of knowledge. Mathematics, in particular, has been highlighted for its strong curriculum design, which helps pupils build a deep understanding of concepts over time.
The introduction of a new phonics scheme has been a positive step, with consistent teaching methods across Reception and Year 1. However, there are concerns regarding the matching of reading materials to pupils' phonics knowledge, which needs to be addressed to ensure effective practice. The school environment is rich in reading resources, fostering a love for literature among pupils.
Assessment practices in mathematics and phonics are secure, with teachers effectively using data to inform interventions. However, the use of assessment in foundation subjects is not yet consistent, and leaders are working to improve this area. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are achieving well and often access the same tasks as their peers, supported by appropriate resources.
The school offers a range of experiences outside the classroom, capitalizing on its coastal location to provide activities such as fishing and surfing. While pupils demonstrate an understanding of various family structures and equality issues, there is a noted gap in their understanding of British values, which has been impacted by the lack of whole-school assemblies during the pandemic. Leaders are encouraged to integrate discussions of British values into the personal, social, and health education curriculum.
The local governing body comprises many new members who are enthusiastic but require training to effectively support and challenge school leaders. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders aware of local risks and ensuring that the curriculum addresses relevant issues. Overall, while West Cliff Primary School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum development and the reinforcement of British values.
