Peak Dale Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The principled and determined leadership of the headteacher has created a culture of inclusion which permeates all aspects of school life.

This is reflected in the consistently positive and welcoming attitudes of pupils. Governors have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and priorities for development. They, together with staff, are ambitious for the school.

The development of pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural themes lies at the heart of the school's work. The implementation of the 'creative curriculum' is highly effective and ensures that pupils learn well across a broad range of subjects. The personal development... of pupils is exceptionally well considered.

Plentiful opportunities enable pupils to consider themes such as healthy living and personal safety. The school's arrangements for safeguarding are highly effective and staff have embedded a strong culture of vigilance. Pupils feel safe and happy at school.

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are making good progress as a result of the closely targeted support they receive. The quality of teaching is consistently good. Pupils receive lessons that are well planned and engaging, enabling them to make good progress.

Teaching in the early years is good. Children make good progress from their typically low starting points. Leaders are beginning to take action to strengthen the engagement of parents in children's learning.

Teachers and leaders engage well with local schools to share practice and check the accuracy of their assessment work. The behaviour of pupils is outstanding. Pupils are exceptionally polite, friendly and courteous.

The attendance of pupils has improved and is above the national average. Leaders make exceptionally good use of the additional funding for physical education (PE) and sports. All pupils participate in at least one inter-school competition.

The progress of pupils in reading and writing has improved. In spelling, however, progress is not as secure as it should be. Too few pupils achieve at the higher standard, particularly in writing and mathematics.

Leaders are acting to resolve this weakness.

Information about this school

This school is much smaller than the average-sized primary school. Pupils are organised into three, mixed-age classes.

All pupils are of White British heritage. The proportion of pupils in receipt of the pupil premium funding is above the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is well above average compared to national figures.

The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is well above the national average. The headteacher of the school also oversees the provision of another local primary school. These schools are poised to form a joint federation arrangement from 25 February 2019.

Also at this postcode