St Peter’s Church of England Primary School, located in Brotton, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on 27 and 28 September 2022. The school is characterized by a caring and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They express confidence in the staff's ability to address any concerns they may have. The school promotes inclusivity and has high expectations for all students, leading to strong social and academic achievements. The quality of teaching, particularly in reading and mathematics, is strong, enabling pupils to grasp essential skills effectively. In other subjects, staff employ strategies that help pupils retain important knowledge, and leaders are committed to ongoing improvements in teaching and assessment.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, showing attentiveness and eagerness to learn during lessons. They socialize well during breaks and demonstrate support for their peers. The school has clear guidelines regarding behavior and bullying, with incidents being rare. Parents appreciate the welcoming approach of the staff and the variety of clubs and experiences offered, which contribute to the school's role as a vital part of the community. This involvement helps shape pupils' values and fosters positive citizenship qualities.
The curriculum is well-designed, taking into account the mixed-aged classes to ensure that pupils build on their knowledge over a two-year program. While plans are in place for all subjects, leaders are refining the curriculum in some foundation subjects, such as music and computing, to enhance pupils' knowledge further. The school employs various assessments to monitor pupils' retention of knowledge, particularly in mathematics and reading, while also working on improving assessment methods in some foundation subjects.
Leaders have prioritized enhancing the teaching of reading, providing regular training for staff and ensuring high-quality phonics instruction. Pupils at early reading stages confidently use their phonics knowledge, and older pupils engage with a diverse range of quality texts. However, the school has identified a decline in handwriting quality since the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among older pupils. Strategies are being implemented to improve letter formation and handwriting skills.
The school fosters a positive learning environment, with staff consistently applying behavior management strategies. From an early age, children learn routines and social skills, which continue as they progress through the school. The resource bases for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well-staffed, providing effective support and ensuring that these pupils achieve good outcomes.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-planned, helping pupils understand their responsibilities as citizens. The development of spirituality is a priority, with pupils actively supporting local and national charities. A variety of clubs and activities are offered, enhancing pupils' experiences and preparing them for events in sports and music. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with SEND and adapts the curriculum accordingly.
Leaders, including governors and trustees, have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They maintain accountability and ensure that staff well-being is considered, contributing to high morale among staff. Parents express positive views about the school, noting the accessibility and support provided by leaders and staff. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and address vulnerabilities among pupils. Overall, St Peter’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment.
