Mapplewell Primary School, located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on 27 and 28 February 2024, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while early years provision received an outstanding rating. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, as it was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020.
The headteacher, Gail Padfield, leads the school, which is part of the Hoyland Common Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by Alan Richards, and the chief executive officer is Tom Banham. The school has a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and actively engaging in upholding its values. They enjoy earning rewards for good behaviour and demonstrate high attendance rates, indicating a positive attitude towards learning and social interaction.
Pupils at Mapplewell Primary School are encouraged to consider the impact of their actions on others, fostering a sense of responsibility as citizens. Initiatives such as fundraising for a nearby hospital and the involvement of Reading Ambassadors highlight the school’s commitment to community engagement and support for younger pupils. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including coding, art, and singing, which help to develop pupils' interests and skills.
The early years provision is a notable strength of the school, with children receiving a solid foundation for their education. The curriculum is designed to prepare them effectively for Year 1, focusing on early mathematical concepts and language development. The school has implemented a high-quality curriculum that is tailored to the needs and interests of its pupils. Teachers employ various strategies to enhance learning, ensuring that knowledge and skills are built upon year after year.
Reading is a priority at Mapplewell Primary School, with a consistent phonics programme in place. Most pupils read books that align well with their phonics knowledge, and those requiring additional support receive timely assistance. The school promotes a love of reading through engaging library resources and regular storytime sessions.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well supported, with teachers adapting their teaching methods to ensure these pupils can access the same curriculum as their peers. Staff regularly assess pupil progress, although there is room for improvement in using this information to identify further curriculum enhancements.
The school prepares pupils for their future lives through enriching experiences, including educational visits and guest speakers. Pupils learn about health, safety, and the importance of treating others with respect. The behaviour policy effectively promotes good behaviour, although some pupils may require reminders during unstructured times to manage competitiveness.
Parents and carers generally appreciate the support provided by the school, although some have suggested improvements in communication. The leadership team prioritizes professional development for staff, implementing strategies to reduce workload and enhance collaboration.
The safeguarding arrangements at Mapplewell Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school should regularly evaluate the impact of its improvement actions to further enhance standards and provision. Overall, Mapplewell Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
