Aycliffe Village Primary and Nursery School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The headteacher has high expectations of staff and pupils. She provides strong and dedicated leadership. Her determined approach has secured rapid improvements across the school during a turbulent period.

Governance arrangements have strengthened. Governors are knowledgeable and committed to the school. Along with other leaders, they have a passion and aspiration to ensure the best possible outcomes for all pupils.

Middle leaders are an asset to the school. They are helpful in supporting colleagues in developing new skills, although the teaching of phonics requires further development. Leaders' focused work ensures teaching caters for all... pupils' abilities.

Teachers' effective questioning successfully challenges pupils. Work in books and evidence in lessons show that, overall, pupils are making good progress. Staff morale is very positive.

There is a strong team identity and staff appreciate the support given by school leaders. Staff are keen to improve their practice. As a result, teaching has strengthened and is now good.

Staff and leaders have worked successfully together to create a happy, challenging and safe school. Pupils enjoy coming to school and are pleased with their achievements. Leaders provide a broad, balanced and stimulating curriculum.

This helps pupils to develop skills, knowledge and understanding across a wide range of subjects in an exciting and meaningful way. Children in the early years usually make good progress. Sometimes, however, teaching is not sufficiently challenging.

This is especially the case for the most able and when children are playing outdoors or during phonics sessions. Pupils are confident and cooperative individuals. They work well together.

They are proud of the work they do to help others, both in the school and in the local community. Pupils' behaviour is good. They have positive attitudes to their learning and take great care with their presentation and handwriting.

There is a strong culture of safeguarding. Pupils feel safe and appreciate the many ways in which the school helps them learn to stay safe. Parents are extremely positive about the work the school does for their children.

They recognise and appreciate the care and commitment staff provide.

Information about this school

The school is smaller than the average-sized primary school. The vast majority of pupils are White British.

The proportion of disadvantaged pupils, those eligible for support through pupil premium funding, is well below average. The proportion of pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities is below that found nationally. The proportion of pupils with an education, health and care plan is well below that found nationally.