Athersley South Primary School, located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, has been recognized for its effective overall performance during its recent inspection. The headteacher, Emma Sanderson, leads the school, which is part of the Every Child Matters Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Geraldine Wilson and a board of trustees chaired by William Ward. The inspection took place on October 15 and 16, 2024, and the school was previously judged to be good in its overall effectiveness.
The school environment is described as friendly and welcoming, with pupils expressing a strong enjoyment of their time there. The vision of the school emphasizes the success and enjoyment of learning for every child, and staff are committed to supporting pupils in achieving their best. Safety is a priority, and pupils feel secure, knowing they can approach adults with any concerns. The emphasis on well-being is evident, with initiatives such as the school dog providing comfort to students.
High expectations are set for pupils, and the curriculum is both broad and varied, allowing students to achieve well. Positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive learning atmosphere. Pupils demonstrate kindness and politeness, and they actively participate in school activities, such as striving for success within their house teams. The school offers numerous clubs and activities, including creative pursuits and transition support for older pupils moving to secondary school.
Parents have expressed positive feedback about the school, with all respondents to the Ofsted Parent View survey indicating they would recommend it. The school has developed an ambitious curriculum, with leaders carefully selecting the knowledge and experiences they want pupils to acquire. Staff receive high-quality training to ensure the curriculum is effective for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. For instance, the school has introduced additional opportunities for pupils to build confidence in music, particularly in learning percussion and brass instruments.
The school prioritizes the development of vocabulary and oracy skills from the early years, encouraging clear communication among students. This foundational work supports high-quality writing and overall communication skills. In history lessons, for example, Year 6 pupils demonstrated their understanding of historical evidence by discussing sources from the Second World War before articulating their thoughts in writing.
Reading is another area of focus, with pupils having access to a wide range of high-quality books. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to develop fluency in reading. Additional support is provided for weaker readers to help them catch up quickly.
Pupils take pride in their work and are taught to manage their behavior effectively. From a young age, children learn to tidy up, and older pupils exhibit calm behavior throughout the school. Staff provide clear explanations of expectations, ensuring pupils understand their learning objectives. Regular opportunities for review and reinforcement of learning are integrated into lessons, particularly in mathematics.
While the school excels in many areas, it is currently working on improving attendance rates for some pupils. Although plans are in place, attendance remains a challenge, impacting students' learning and social experiences. The school provides catch-up sessions for absent pupils, but this can lead to missed opportunities in the broader curriculum.
The school promotes personal development through various opportunities, fostering an understanding of mutual respect and awareness of different cultures and faiths. The school council actively involves pupils in decision-making processes, reflecting their suggestions and preferences. The pastoral care provided is a notable strength, with recent initiatives focused on mental health positively impacting student well-being. Daily check-ins with staff ensure that pupils receive timely support when needed.
Staff members express pride in being part of the school community, appreciating the support provided for their workload and well-being. The collaborative efforts of governors, trust, and school staff contribute to a strong sense of accountability and a shared commitment to ensuring all pupils achieve their potential. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Overall, Athersley South Primary School demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, and its initiatives reflect a dedication to continuous improvement and the well-being of all students.
