Escrick Church of England Primary School is a vibrant and welcoming institution located in the heart of the village of Escrick, North Yorkshire. The school has created an environment where pupils can thrive, supported by well-maintained grounds that include a forest school, offering opportunities for exploration and personal growth. The school fosters strong connections with local organizations, allowing students to engage in community projects that enhance their learning experience. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment is reflected in the positive behavior and attitudes of the pupils, who understand the importance of their actions and the consequences that follow.
The school has demonstrated effective management of recent changes, including a rapid increase in pupil enrollment and adaptations necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders have prioritized the needs of students in their decision-making processes, ensuring that the quality of education remains high. The curriculum has been thoughtfully developed to cater to the diverse needs of all pupils, with particular attention given to those with special educational needs. A new phonics scheme was introduced to support early reading, enabling children to learn letter sounds and form words from the outset of their education. Continuous monitoring of pupil progress ensures that no child falls behind, with timely interventions in place to address any learning gaps.
Pupils develop a love for reading as they progress through the school, benefiting from various opportunities to engage with literature. The curriculum is designed to break learning into manageable steps, particularly in mathematics, where a new program has been implemented to enhance fluency in problem-solving. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects like history, where the specific knowledge expected of pupils has not been clearly defined. Leaders recognize the need to further refine the curriculum to ensure that all subjects have well-defined learning objectives.
In the early years, activities are tailored to children's interests, with strong adult interactions fostering communication and language development. The school prepares children effectively for their transition to Year 1, ensuring they are ready for the next stage of their education. Additionally, the school has implemented a range of initiatives to develop pupils' character, promoting understanding and respect for diversity through various projects.
The local governing board plays a crucial role in providing strategic oversight, supporting leaders in making informed decisions. Staff well-being is prioritized, fostering a collaborative team environment. Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective processes in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. Staff receive regular training to stay informed about safeguarding practices, and the personal, social, health education curriculum equips pupils with essential knowledge about safety and well-being.
While the school has many strengths, there is a need for continued development in defining the key knowledge that pupils should acquire across all subjects. This will enable teachers to identify learning gaps more accurately and ensure that all pupils receive a comprehensive education. Overall, Escrick Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to grow academically and personally, supported by dedicated leaders and staff who are committed to their success.
