East Stanley School, located in County Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Mrs. Joanne Williams, the school is part of the Stanley Learning Partnership, which involves shared responsibilities among various stakeholders, including the chief executive officer Mark Stewart and the board of trustees chaired by Tom Harpe. The school community is characterized by a strong ambition to provide the best educational experience for its pupils, who demonstrate a high level of enjoyment and achievement in their learning.
Pupils at East Stanley School are taught the importance of respect and kindness, embracing their diverse backgrounds and individual characteristics. This positive environment is evident during lunchtime, where students engage in various activities and play harmoniously together. The school has established effective routines that promote good behavior and learning, allowing new Reception pupils to settle in quickly and older students to meet the expectations set by their teachers. The attentive listening and quick adherence to guidance from teachers contribute to a conducive learning atmosphere.
Safety is a priority at East Stanley School, with pupils receiving education on how to protect themselves in various situations, including online interactions. They feel confident approaching adults within the school if they have concerns, fostering a safe and supportive environment. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the necessary support to thrive academically.
The curriculum is well-structured, with clear learning objectives outlined for each subject. Leaders have carefully planned the progression of knowledge from Reception through Year 6, ensuring that foundational skills are built upon as pupils advance. For instance, in physical education, younger students learn basic throwing techniques, which are further developed into more complex skills as they progress. Teachers are equipped with the knowledge and resources to deliver effective lessons, and the positive behavior of pupils minimizes disruptions, allowing for a deeper understanding of the material.
While the school excels in reading and mathematics, it recognizes the need to enhance assessment procedures in the wider curriculum to better gauge pupils' understanding. The school is aware that some subjects do not consistently challenge high-achieving pupils, and it is actively working to refine its approach in these areas. Following the pandemic, a new phonics program was introduced to better meet the needs of pupils, and initial results indicate that it is effective in helping students learn to read.
East Stanley School also offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including trips, clubs, and a coordinated program of experiences designed to enrich pupils' education. The personal, social, and health education curriculum supports pupils in understanding their development and the importance of safety and respect for others.
The leadership team fosters a collaborative environment, involving staff in decision-making processes and considering their workload. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, ensuring the well-being of all students. Overall, East Stanley School continues to provide a high-quality education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and the holistic development of its pupils.
