Galley Hill Primary School, located in Guisborough, North Yorkshire, was inspected by Ofsted on June 29 and 30, 2022. The school has been rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school became an academy in April 2018, following a previous outstanding rating for its predecessor school.
The leadership team at Galley Hill Primary School has established high expectations for pupils, which are shared by all staff members. A new curriculum has been implemented across all subjects, and in most areas, this curriculum is effectively taught. Leaders recognize the importance of reading as a foundational skill and actively promote a love of reading among students. Pupils express enthusiasm for the books they read and their favorite authors, indicating a positive reading culture within the school.
The school’s motto, Ready, respectful, safe, is well understood by the pupils, who demonstrate determination in their work and kindness towards one another. Initiatives such as playground buddies ensure that no child feels excluded. The school emphasizes the importance of safe relationships and friendship, effectively managing any instances of bullying that may arise. Pupils feel confident that they can seek help from adults if they have concerns.
Galley Hill Primary School provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage as active citizens. Students participate in the school council and some are trained as mental health champions, offering support to classmates in need. Attendance is prioritized, with leaders implementing programs to assist pupils with medical needs in accessing lessons.
The school has introduced a new phonics program, with staff receiving training to ensure effective delivery. Teachers facilitate repeated practice of new sounds, and pupils read books that align with their phonics knowledge. This approach has resulted in improved fluency and confidence in reading among all pupils. The early years curriculum is well-structured, providing a strong foundation for learning, and children with special educational needs receive tailored support to aid their development.
In mathematics, leaders have designed an ambitious curriculum that builds knowledge progressively from early years through to Year 6. Staff training has been provided to address more challenging aspects of mathematics, leading to consistent lesson delivery and increased pupil confidence in the subject.
While some subjects, such as science, have clear curriculum plans, there are areas where teachers may lack a strong understanding of the subjects they teach. This can lead to inconsistencies in curriculum implementation. Leaders are encouraged to provide additional training to enhance staff subject knowledge.
The school is committed to developing pupils' character and understanding of tolerance and respect. However, there is a need for more opportunities for pupils to learn about equality and the rule of law to ensure they become well-rounded citizens. Extracurricular activities, including various clubs, are available to all pupils, contributing to their overall enjoyment and engagement in school life.
The trustees effectively hold leaders accountable for the quality of education provided. Staff well-being is prioritized, with initiatives in place to support their mental health. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to identify and respond to risks to pupil safety. Overall, Galley Hill Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils.
