Richardson Endowed Primary School, located in Smalley, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, underwent an ungraded inspection on June 13 and 14, 2023. The overall judgement of the school remains good, although inspectors noted that the current evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. Consequently, it is recommended that the next inspection be a graded one.
Pupils at Richardson Endowed Primary School express appreciation for the care and support provided by the staff, feeling safe and happy in their environment. Parents echo this sentiment, with many noting that their children feel secure at the school. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they listen attentively and engage positively in lessons, demonstrating a desire to learn and share ideas. The school promotes a positive atmosphere where pupils earn rewards for hard work and good choices.
Bullying is reported to be non-existent, with pupils understanding its implications and feeling confident that staff would address any issues swiftly. The school offers a variety of clubs, such as yoga and performance clubs, which are well-attended and enjoyed by students. The curriculum is broad and engaging, with pupils aware of the learning themes that enrich their educational experience. However, there are inconsistencies in how the curriculum is planned and implemented across different subjects.
Pupils show enthusiasm for learning and develop their vocabulary effectively, which aids in articulating their ideas. They benefit from diverse reading materials and enjoy story time. Significant improvements have been made in the writing curriculum, with leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils and ensuring that teachers are equipped to deliver this knowledge effectively. As a result, pupils achieve well in writing.
Leaders are also focusing on enhancing the broader curriculum, selecting topics and books that promote understanding of themes like identity, diversity, and environmental conservation. However, this initiative is still in its early stages, and many subject leaders have yet to define the key knowledge for their subjects. Consequently, the knowledge gained in these areas is not always well-connected, leading to suboptimal achievement.
The phonics program is well-structured, with staff identifying necessary sounds and words for pupils to learn. However, there is a lack of oversight to ensure that all staff teach phonics effectively, resulting in some pupils falling behind. Teaching effectiveness varies, with some pupils lacking sufficient opportunities to practice new knowledge. Teachers do not consistently adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, which hampers their learning.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-sequenced, and staff are adept at identifying children who need additional support. The learning environment is rich and engaging, allowing children to thrive in their play. The curriculum also supports pupils' broader development, with many clubs available to nurture individual talents. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of British values and learn about mental health, developing leadership skills through roles such as buddies and class ambassadors.
Staff express pride in working at the school, appreciating the supportive leadership that considers their workload. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with regular training ensuring that staff are equipped to identify and report concerns promptly. Pupils are educated on online safety and community awareness through visits from local services.
To improve, leaders must identify key knowledge across all subjects to ensure the curriculum builds on prior learning. Additionally, they need to ensure that the curriculum is ambitious for pupils with special educational needs and that all staff are equipped to deliver it effectively. Addressing these areas will enhance the overall educational experience at Richardson Endowed Primary School.
