Grace Darling CofE Primary School, located in Newbiggin-By-the-Sea, Northumberland, has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which opened in September 2021, is part of the Northumberland Church of England Academy Trust and serves children aged 2 to 11. The headteacher, Sharon Cole, along with the trust's CEO, Alan Hardie, and the board of trustees, led by John Brearley, are responsible for the school's management.
The school fosters an inclusive environment where every pupil is valued and encouraged to shine. Strong relationships between staff and students contribute to a positive atmosphere, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and a clear understanding of expectations. The school emphasizes the importance of being ready, respectful, and safe, resulting in calm and orderly classrooms. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel secure in reporting any issues to adults.
The curriculum is ambitious and designed to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school prioritizes reading, starting from nursery with familiar rhymes and stories, leading to effective phonics teaching in reception. However, while phonics instruction is strong, there is a noted lack of opportunities for children to practice correct letter formation, leading to writing errors that are not consistently addressed.
Pupils are provided with numerous opportunities for learning outside the classroom, including initiatives like Beach School, which teaches water safety and environmental care. The music curriculum is particularly noteworthy, allowing all pupils to learn an instrument and perform regularly, fostering pride and self-belief among students.
Despite the positive aspects of the school, attendance remains a concern, with figures declining and many pupils missing valuable learning opportunities. Leaders are aware of the need to cultivate a culture that emphasizes the importance of regular attendance for academic success. They have implemented various initiatives to improve attendance but recognize that further efforts are necessary to engage the entire school community, including parents.
The early years provision is well-planned, focusing on communication and language development, and children make strong progress from their starting points. However, the lack of practice in letter formation during phonics lessons means that some children are not adequately prepared for the writing curriculum in Year 1.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum effectively teaches pupils about healthy living and relationships, promoting respect for diversity and equality. Pupils take on leadership roles within the school, contributing to a sense of responsibility and community.
Overall, the leadership team, including governors and trustees, demonstrates high ambitions for the pupils and actively supports the school's mission. Staff feel valued and are proud to be part of the school community. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Grace Darling CofE Primary School provides a supportive and enriching educational experience, with a strong focus on personal development and community engagement. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in attendance and writing skills, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
