Southtown Primary School, a vibrant community hub in Great Yarmouth, has recently undergone its first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic. The inspection, conducted by Ofsted, has highlighted both the strengths and areas for improvement within the school, which serves a diverse student body of 196 pupils aged 4 to 11.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing enjoyment in their daily school life. Staff support students well, ensuring a safe environment where children can thrive. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including visits to local attractions like aquariums and opportunities for older pupils to engage in the school council. Events such as the school disco are particularly popular, contributing to a lively school culture.
Recently, the pupil well-being ambassadors achieved national recognition for their efforts, showcasing the school's commitment to student welfare. However, the report notes that while most pupils behave well, there are concerns regarding the behavior of some students, which can disrupt learning for others.
Strengths of the School:
Quality of Education: The school has been rated as 'Good' in this area. Leaders have made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum across various subjects, ensuring that pupils are equipped with the knowledge they need to succeed. The early years provision is particularly strong, with children well-prepared for their transition to Year 1.
Personal Development: The school promotes a culture of inclusivity and respect, with pupils learning about diversity and healthy relationships through a well-structured personal, social, and health education program.
Leadership and Management: The leadership team is dedicated to improving the quality of education. Staff report positively about their experiences, appreciating the support and professional development opportunities provided by school leaders.
Safeguarding: The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Leaders are proactive in ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
Areas for Improvement:
Behaviour Management: The report highlights inconsistencies in the application of the school's behaviour policy. Some pupils are unclear about expectations, leading to disruptions in lessons. The school must ensure that behaviour expectations are communicated clearly and enforced consistently by all staff.
Attendance: While overall attendance is in line with national averages, the school faces challenges with persistent absence, particularly among vulnerable pupils. Leaders are urged to strengthen their strategies to improve attendance rates.
Curriculum Impact: Recent changes to the curriculum in some subjects need ongoing evaluation to ensure that teaching is effective and that pupils are learning successfully.
Conclusion:
Southtown Primary School is a community-oriented institution with a strong foundation in education and personal development. While there are areas that require attention, the commitment of the leadership team and staff to improve the school is evident. With focused efforts on behaviour management and attendance, Southtown Primary School is poised to enhance its educational offerings and provide an even better experience for its pupils.
For more information about Southtown Primary School, visit their website at www.southtownprimaryschool.com.
