Waterside Primary School, located in Stoke-on-Trent, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness in education. The school is led by headteacher Louise Willis and is part of the Shaw Education Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The recent inspection conducted on October 8 and 9, 2024, confirmed that the school has effectively maintained the high standards established in previous evaluations. The school’s motto, Empowering learners and enriching lives, reflects its commitment to creating a vibrant learning environment where pupils can thrive.
The school offers a rich and diverse curriculum that encourages pupils to develop their aspirations and reach their full potential. It is particularly noted for its ambition to support all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff members are dedicated to understanding the individual needs of pupils from the moment they enter the school, ensuring that effective support is in place to facilitate their learning. This approach has resulted in pupils demonstrating a strong understanding of various subjects and topics.
Pupils at Waterside Primary School exhibit maturity and respect in their interactions with both staff and peers. Their behavior aligns with the school’s values, contributing to a safe and happy environment. The school provides numerous opportunities for enrichment, including educational trips that enhance the curriculum. Pupils take pride in their roles and responsibilities, which include supporting the well-being of their classmates.
The school is relentless in its pursuit of providing the best education possible. Staff members possess a clear understanding of what constitutes effective teaching and learning, leading to significant academic success for pupils. The school’s curriculum is designed to address the diverse needs of its students, with particular attention given to those with SEND. The early years outdoor area has been improved to support the development of gross motor skills, while technology is integrated into lessons to enhance learning experiences.
Teaching strategies are carefully crafted to help pupils grasp and retain essential concepts across subjects. For example, in mathematics, staff utilize models and images to reinforce understanding of key ideas. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing for the progressive building of knowledge as pupils advance through their education. Staff closely monitor pupil progress, identifying any gaps in understanding and providing targeted support to address these areas.
Language and communication development is prioritized from the start of a child’s education at the school. Engaging activities, such as rhymes and stories, are employed to enhance vocabulary and foster a love of reading. Daily phonics lessons are implemented to ensure that pupils develop confidence and fluency in reading, with timely support provided for those who require additional assistance.
The school excels in meeting the needs of pupils with SEND, making necessary adaptations to facilitate their learning alongside their peers. The focus on both academic and social development is evident, with structured support in place for those who may find the classroom environment challenging.
Waterside Primary School also emphasizes character development and community engagement. Initiatives such as the pupil parliament empower students to contribute positively to their local community. The leadership of the school is characterized by integrity, with a strong sense of teamwork among staff. The trust provides a balanced approach to support and challenge, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of pupils and their families.
Overall, the inspection affirmed that Waterside Primary School continues to provide an excellent educational experience, characterized by high standards of teaching, a supportive environment, and a commitment to the holistic development of its pupils.
