Coatham Church of England Primary School in Redcar, North Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 6 and 7, 2022. The school is dedicated to preparing pupils for their future, emphasizing the motto of learning for life rather than just for school. From early years, children are encouraged to be independent and learn from their mistakes, fostering resilience and problem-solving skills. Parents and carers report that pupils thrive in this environment, gaining confidence and developing a strong sense of community. The school is inclusive, with high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Respect is a core value at Coatham Primary School, where pupils learn the importance of friendship and how to handle bullying. They are aware of the procedures for reporting bullying and trust the staff to address any issues promptly. Older pupils take pride in their roles as anti-bullying ambassadors, helping younger students to interact positively. The overall atmosphere is one of happiness and safety, contributing to a positive learning environment.
The school leaders have ambitious goals for the curriculum, carefully planning the knowledge pupils should acquire and when. The curriculum is designed to reflect the local community, with practical experiences such as visits to the beach for geography and science lessons. Vocabulary development is prioritized, and tools like sticky knowledge mats help pupils retain what they learn. However, there are instances where lesson activities do not fully engage pupils with the key knowledge intended, which can hinder their ability to articulate their learning effectively.
Staff are well-informed about the needs of their pupils, particularly those with SEND, ensuring they receive appropriate support to access the curriculum and develop independence. Reading is a significant focus, with regular individual reading sessions and daily storytime. A new phonics scheme has been introduced, and while initial training has been provided, ongoing development is necessary to ensure effective delivery. Pupils who struggle with reading are identified and given additional support.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils showing engagement and enthusiasm for learning. Staff address any signs of inattention swiftly, and positive interactions are evident throughout the school. The core values of friendship, respect, and fairness are reflected in the relationships among pupils.
Beyond academics, the school promotes personal development through discussions on current affairs and mindfulness practices. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their actions and learn about healthy relationships in an age-appropriate manner. The leadership team has a clear vision for the school, fostering a supportive environment for staff and ensuring that parents appreciate the leadership's efforts.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils are educated on safety in their community, including beach safety and online safety. Leaders maintain close oversight of vulnerable pupils and collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support.
To improve, the school needs to enhance the expertise of staff in delivering phonics instruction to ensure all pupils progress at a similar rate. Additionally, lesson activities should be more focused on the essential knowledge that leaders want pupils to learn, enabling them to develop a deeper understanding of the subjects. Overall, Coatham Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
