Outwood Primary Academy Greystone, located in Ripon, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good across various aspects of education, behavior, personal development, and leadership. The early years provision stands out as outstanding, indicating a strong foundation for children's education. The inspection, conducted on May 18 and 19, 2022, marks the school's first routine evaluation since joining the Outwood Grange Academies Trust in January 2018.
Pupils at Outwood Primary Academy Greystone demonstrate a genuine love for learning, with lessons designed to engage their imagination and maintain focus. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing children in early years to participate in thoughtfully planned activities for extended periods. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally. Parents express strong support for the school, emphasizing its commitment to academic progress and personal development.
The school fosters a positive environment where pupils adhere to established routines and expectations. They appreciate the recognition they receive for displaying positive behaviors, such as earning super swirls for following school rules. Pupils are encouraged to take on various responsibilities, contributing to initiatives like the well-being garden created by well-being ambassadors. This involvement instills a sense of purpose and belonging among students, who feel they can make a difference in their school community.
Pupils possess a clear understanding of bullying and report that incidents are rare. They feel secure in the knowledge that staff will address any concerns promptly. The school prioritizes the well-being of its students, creating a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Leadership at Outwood Primary Academy Greystone is characterized by a clear vision and ambition for improvement. The relentless focus on raising standards has led to significant advancements in the quality of education. Curriculum development is a priority, with leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils to acquire and ensuring that new learning builds on prior knowledge. Subject leaders actively monitor curriculum delivery, providing support where necessary to maintain high standards.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some older pupils have expressed concerns about the responsiveness of adults to their issues, indicating a need for better communication and reporting systems. Additionally, variability in curriculum delivery has been noted in certain subjects, particularly where new subject leaders are still acclimating to their roles. Regular monitoring of curriculum implementation is essential to address these gaps and support staff development.
Assessment practices are in place, but there is room for refinement to ensure that gaps in pupils' knowledge are accurately identified and addressed. Leaders are encouraged to enhance their assessment systems to align closely with expected knowledge at each stage of education.
Overall, Outwood Primary Academy Greystone is a school that demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The positive feedback from parents and the dedication of staff contribute to a vibrant school community focused on the holistic development of its students. With continued attention to communication, curriculum delivery, and assessment practices, the school is well-positioned for ongoing success.
