Grangetown Primary School, located in Middlesbrough, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which is part of the Steel River Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Charlotte Mott and serves a diverse student body of 294 pupils aged 2 to 11. The inspection took place on January 30 and 31, 2024, marking the first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
The inspection report emphasizes the strong sense of community within the school, where high aspirations for all pupils are evident. Staff members are noted for their warm and positive relationships with students, ensuring that individual needs, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities, are well understood and supported. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, providing trusted adults for students to share their concerns. Initiatives such as ‘The Nest’ offer additional support for pupils needing help with emotional management.
Pupils at Grangetown Primary School demonstrate good behavior and positive attitudes, engaging cooperatively in both work and play. The implementation of an outdoor play and learning initiative has been well received, and students are familiar with the school’s values of being ready, respectful, and safe. Leadership opportunities abound, with the Junior Leadership Team actively involved in monitoring school facilities and sharing ideas with school leaders.
The curriculum at Grangetown Primary is well-structured, with a focus on helping pupils retain important knowledge, particularly in mathematics. Teachers employ various strategies, including quizzes and recall activities, to assess understanding. However, the report notes that there are instances where pupils are not sufficiently challenged, particularly in writing tasks. The school has a specialist provision for pupils with moderate learning difficulties, ensuring their full integration into school life and access to the curriculum.
Reading is a key focus, with early years pupils learning about letters and sounds from the Reception Year. Regular assessments help staff track progress and identify those needing additional support. The school emphasizes language and communication, particularly in the early years, to enhance vocabulary development.
The atmosphere within the school is described as calm and purposeful, with high expectations set for pupil behavior. Significant investments have been made in mental health support, with trained staff providing a safe environment for pupils to discuss their concerns. The personal, social, and health education program is well-constructed, equipping pupils with essential life skills and fostering positive attitudes towards diversity.
Grangetown Primary School maintains strong relationships with the local community, engaging parents through various initiatives. The governing body is well-informed about the school’s operations, and staff members express pride in their work environment, feeling supported in their roles.
While the school has many strengths, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum content is sufficiently challenging across all subjects. This will help pupils develop a deeper understanding and mastery of knowledge and skills. Overall, Grangetown Primary School is recognized for its commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment, with a clear focus on the holistic development of its pupils.
