Village Primary School, located on Windsor Road in Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2023. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending and value their education as a pathway to successful careers. Teachers maintain high expectations, encouraging students to engage actively in their learning without fear of making mistakes, which they understand as part of the educational process.
Pupils contribute to establishing school rules that promote a culture of striving for personal bests. Their behavior is commendable, characterized by good manners and a strong sense of community. Reports from students indicate that bullying is not an issue, and they feel confident that any potential incidents would be addressed effectively by the staff. The relationships between pupils and teachers are warm and supportive, creating a safe atmosphere where students feel comfortable sharing their concerns.
The school emphasizes the importance of exploration and discovery, celebrating pupils' achievements in embodying values such as patience and resilience. There is a strong focus on global awareness, with students learning about significant issues like gender equality and poverty eradication. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and relevant, with essential knowledge clearly mapped out in most subjects. In areas like history and mathematics, key concepts are interlinked, aiding pupils in connecting new information to prior knowledge, which enhances retention over time. However, in some subjects, such as geography, the connections are less explicit, indicating a need for improvement in curriculum mapping.
Assessment practices are effectively utilized by teachers to monitor pupils' understanding and retention of new material. This approach allows for timely interventions for those who require additional support, including students with special educational needs and disabilities. The inclusive nature of the school ensures that all pupils have access to the same curriculum, with teachers adept at making necessary adaptations.
Reading is a priority at Village Primary School, with a structured approach to phonics beginning in the early years. Children in the two-year-old provision enjoy daily storytime, which continues through to Year 6, where students engage with class stories in their own copies. This consistent focus on reading helps pupils become confident and fluent readers.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with children demonstrating curiosity and excitement for learning. They engage in independent activities that prepare them well for their transition to Year 1. Overall, pupils are engaged and well-behaved, with minimal disruption during lessons. The school promotes positive attitudes, encouraging students to aspire to leadership roles within the school community.
The trust supporting the school provides valuable resources and networking opportunities for staff, contributing to high morale among teachers. Leaders are described as supportive and respectful, fostering a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff well-trained to identify and address concerns. The school has clear systems for reporting issues, ensuring swift action is taken when necessary. Pupils are educated on safety both in and out of school, covering topics such as road safety and online safety.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum in foundation subjects is as well-defined as in others, allowing for comprehensive learning across all areas. This will help maintain the high standards already established and ensure that all pupils receive a well-rounded education.
