Blackfordby St Margaret’s Church of England Primary School, located in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, was inspected on January 25 and 26, 2022. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This inspection marked the first evaluation under the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in October 2017.
The school is characterized by a warm and family-like atmosphere, where leaders and staff prioritize the well-being and educational needs of all pupils. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring that they receive a good quality education from early years through to Year 6. Staff members are well-acquainted with the pupils, which fosters a supportive environment where issues are addressed promptly and kindly.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating good behaviour and respect for school rules. They understand the expectations set forth by the school and feel safe within the school environment. The school promotes a culture of safety, where pupils are educated about bullying and know how to seek help if needed. The calm and productive atmosphere in classrooms allows for effective learning, with pupils listening attentively and responding well to instructions.
The curriculum has been revised to clearly outline the knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire at each stage of their education. Staff are in the early stages of implementing this new curriculum, which aims to enhance pupils' love for reading and learning. While pupils are beginning to apply their existing knowledge to new concepts, there are instances where misunderstandings are not addressed quickly enough, potentially hindering their learning.
In mathematics, the school has a solid framework in place, with leaders providing support and training for staff. Pupils express enjoyment in mathematics and demonstrate a good understanding of key concepts. The work produced by pupils aligns with the curriculum expectations, showcasing a logical progression in their learning.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with leaders and staff collaborating with parents and external agencies to ensure that these pupils can fully participate in school life. Reading is a priority, with well-stocked reading areas and a new phonics program introduced to promote early literacy skills. Staff are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those in upper years who may still be developing their reading skills, receive the necessary support.
The school also emphasizes the broader development of pupils, reintroducing clubs and activities as COVID-19 restrictions ease. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their school community. The curriculum includes education about different faiths and cultures, promoting respect and understanding among pupils.
Staff collaboration is strong, with leaders providing support and acknowledging the importance of staff well-being. Governance is effective, with trustees fulfilling their responsibilities diligently. The school has established a robust safeguarding culture, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
Overall, Blackfordby St Margaret’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all staff are equipped to support reading development across all year groups, the school is on a positive trajectory towards achieving its educational goals.
