Wellgate Primary School at Mapplewell gets good report from Ofsted

Two inspection categories: the extent to which pupils feel safe, and pupils’ behaviour are judged 1 – outstanding.

Pupils of all abilities and backgrounds achieve well and thoroughly enjoy their learning. Attainment in English and science is average and above average in mathematics at the end of Year 6. Outcomes for individuals and groups of pupils are also graded 2 – good. This category takes account of pupils’ healthy lifestyles, their contribution to the school and wider community, and their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Pupils enjoy a diverse range of role play and derive great pleasure in developing their communication skills this way, the inspectors say. For example, their imaginations were stimulated as they ‘explored Tutankhamen's tomb', and sought treasure armed only with excitement and a torch!

The curriculum is tailored well to pupils’ interests and themes such as sustainability and enterprise engage their curiosity. Pupils with special educational needs or disabilities do as well as others and sometimes even better as a result of early identification of their needs coupled with individual learning programmes and skilful support.

Strong working relationships between pupils and adults are a key feature of successful teaching, the inspectors note. Adults ensure they regularly use discussions between pupils in lessons. This enables pupils to practise speaking, listening and organising their thoughts, as well as extending their ideas and problem-solving. Skilful teaching assistants make a good contribution to pupils’ learning.

Parents and pupils alike view the school as a caring and happy place for reasons including welcoming displays, cheery staff and bright, clean and well-cared-for learning environments. Some parents commented: “We are extremely impressed with the level of communication between the school and parents.”

Ofsted praises headteacher Carol Kirkman for her strong steer of the school’s work and for driving rapid improvement. Mrs Kirkman commented: “I am really pleased for everyone that Ofsted have acknowledged our continued hard work and dedication to the children of Wellgate and its community.”

Chair of governors Janet Lowe added: “I would like to congratulate and thank the whole school team –
parents, governors and staff – who have been led by our dedicated and caring headteacher for their continued hard work and commitment. We are an extremely lucky school as we have some fantastic children who are a pleasure to educate. I must say no team anywhere could have worked harder and deserved this fantastic result more.”

The Ofsted report recommends some areas for improvement. These are improving pupils’ handwriting and spelling, increasing the proportion of teaching consistently good or better, and further developing outdoor provision in the early years foundation stage.

ENDS