Lealholm Primary School, located in a rural area of North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6, 2022. With a small enrollment of 24 pupils, the school offers a unique river school curriculum that allows students to engage with the natural environment, particularly the nearby River Esk. This curriculum includes activities such as building rafts and photographing the river throughout the seasons, providing students with hands-on learning experiences.
The school fosters strong relationships among pupils, with older students taking responsibility for their younger peers. The atmosphere is described as positive and happy, with pupils adapting well to the school's flexible environment, which includes shared spaces for classrooms and dining. Students express happiness and a sense of safety, feeling well cared for by the staff. Each pupil identifies two trusted adults to whom they can turn for support, ensuring they have access to guidance when needed.
Behavior at Lealholm Primary School is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating politeness, respect, and consideration for one another. The mixed-age classes, which include children from four to eleven years old, promote tolerance and patience among students. They understand the need for adult support and work collaboratively to ensure lessons run smoothly. Pupils have been educated about bullying and assert that it is not an issue at their school, confident that any concerns would be promptly addressed by staff.
The leadership team, including trustees and governors, has effectively managed recent staffing changes, resulting in high staff morale and a sense of value among teachers. The new headteacher, who was previously the chief executive officer, has transformed the school environment. Leaders are proactive in recognizing the limitations of a small school and are committed to ensuring that these do not hinder progress. They have established strong connections with other schools within the trust, promoting collaboration and shared learning opportunities.
The curriculum is well-organized, with careful consideration given to the delivery of content across the two classes. Teachers, supported by teaching assistants, provide tailored instruction to meet the diverse needs of pupils. Regular assessments ensure that any gaps in understanding are addressed promptly. The school has recently updated its phonics program, training all staff to enhance reading instruction. Early years and key stage one pupils benefit from structured daily sessions focused on phonics, enabling them to read fluently with confidence.
Leaders have created a warm and welcoming environment, fostering a family-like atmosphere within the school. High expectations for behavior and academic performance are set, and pupils respond positively, taking pride in their school. The school is also focused on providing a broad range of experiences for pupils, including cultural activities and workshops. However, there is recognition that further work is needed to enhance pupils' personal development and prepare them for future challenges.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a robust system in place to ensure staff are trained and aware of their responsibilities. The school collaborates with external agencies to maintain a safe environment for all pupils. The personal, social, and health education curriculum addresses various safety topics, including online safety and water safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Recent curriculum changes need to be fully embedded, and their impact assessed to provide a clearer understanding of overall effectiveness. Additionally, there is a need to broaden pupils' experiences to build their confidence and independence, ensuring they are well-prepared for secondary school and beyond. Overall, Lealholm Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
