Dean CofE School, located in Workington, has recently undergone an inspection, which took place on June 13 and 14, 2023. The school has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This is a notable achievement, especially considering that the school had not been previously inspected under the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at Dean CofE School express enjoyment in attending, reflecting the leaders' vision of fostering a love for learning. The positive attitudes of the students are evident in their interactions with peers and adults, showcasing kindness and consideration. The strong relationships built within the school community contribute to a safe and happy environment for all pupils, including those in the early years. The high expectations set by the leaders encourage pupils to work diligently and achieve well, with most students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, performing admirably.
The school offers a broad and ambitious curriculum that spans from early years to Year 6. Leaders have carefully identified essential knowledge and the sequence in which it should be taught, resulting in good pupil achievement. Most teachers demonstrate a solid understanding of their subjects and engage pupils with interesting activities and resources. However, there are areas where clarity regarding important knowledge could be improved, which may hinder some pupils from fully retaining information and being adequately prepared for future learning.
In the early years, there are instances where staff have not sufficiently considered the learning objectives for certain activities, leading to gaps in knowledge and skills for some children. Leaders are aware of the importance of addressing these areas to ensure that all pupils are well-prepared for their educational journey.
Reading is a priority at Dean CofE School, with pupils encouraged to read frequently both in and out of school. The enthusiasm for reading is palpable, as students discuss and recommend books to one another. The phonics curriculum is taught effectively, allowing children to learn sounds in a logical order, which supports their development as confident readers.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with children learning expected behaviours from a young age. They respond positively to established routines, demonstrating respect and courtesy towards one another. The school fosters a sense of community, where pupils feel comfortable resolving issues with the support of adults.
The curriculum also emphasizes personal development, with opportunities for pupils to engage in school council activities and contribute to improvements within the school. Initiatives such as fundraising for playground enhancements and creating a wildlife garden help instill a sense of responsibility and independence in students. Leaders prioritize the well-being of pupils, offering mindfulness sessions and encouraging positive self-expression.
The governance of the school is effective, with leaders and trustees working collaboratively to drive improvement. Governors understand their roles and hold leaders accountable for educational quality. Staff well-being is also a priority, with leaders taking steps to ensure that staff feel valued and supported.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a culture of safety established throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to identify and address potential risks, ensuring that pupils are aware of how to keep themselves safe, including online.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that teachers have a clear understanding of the essential knowledge pupils should learn in all subjects. Additionally, further attention is required in the early years to align activities with the curriculum effectively. Overall, Dean CofE School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
