Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School, located in Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on November 7 and 8, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The school is led by headteacher Amanda Baines and is part of the Durham and Newcastle Diocesan Learning Trust, which oversees its operations.
The inspection highlighted a strong sense of community within the school, where leaders and staff are dedicated to providing a high-quality education. Pupils demonstrate exceptional attitudes towards learning and take pride in their school. The environment is described as calm and welcoming, with exemplary behaviour observed throughout the school. Leaders have prioritized high standards of behaviour, contributing to a positive atmosphere conducive to learning.
The curriculum at Holy Trinity is ambitious and regularly reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of the pupils. Early years provision is particularly strong, helping children make a successful transition into key stage one. The school places a significant emphasis on reading, with consistent phonics teaching that enables pupils to become confident readers. Older pupils engage with a variety of texts, including novels that connect to other subjects, fostering a love for reading.
Mathematics instruction is structured effectively, allowing pupils to understand lesson frameworks that aid retention of knowledge. The enthusiasm for mathematics is evident among pupils, who enjoy their lessons and engage with numbers in meaningful ways. The school has recently refined its assessment methods in mathematics to align more closely with the curriculum taught.
While some subjects, such as physical education, are well-planned and embedded, others, like art and design, require further development to ensure that pupils retain and connect key knowledge and skills. The school is aware of these inconsistencies and is working towards implementing improvements across all subjects.
The school has established clear procedures for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Timely referrals to additional agencies ensure that these pupils receive the necessary support, allowing them to learn alongside their peers effectively.
Pupils exhibit high levels of focus and determination, with their positive behaviour serving as a model for others. This strong foundation of behaviour is nurtured from early years through to the later stages of education. The school promotes empathy and care among pupils, ensuring that any behaviour not meeting expectations is addressed promptly.
Extracurricular activities, including clubs and school trips, enhance the curriculum and provide pupils with opportunities to develop outside the classroom. The school fosters a strong sense of equality and understanding of diverse faiths, with leadership roles available for pupils to encourage active participation in the school community.
Leaders reflect on curriculum priorities for further development and are mindful of staff workload, fostering a collaborative environment among the staff. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
In summary, Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to high educational standards, with a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes both academic and personal development. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement in its curriculum delivery.