Cumberworth Church of England Voluntary Aided First School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school. Pupils make outstanding progress across the school and consistently reach standards that are well above those expected for their age in reading and writing and more recently in mathematics. Pupils' achievement in writing is a particular strength.

There are many opportunities for pupils to use their reading and writing skills across other areas of the curriculum, especially in research and topic work. Children get off to a flying start in the Early Years Foundation Stage. Well-planned and purposeful activities and the strong teaching of letters and sounds ensure children are happy, inquisitive, thoughtful and extremely well-prepared for Ye...ar 1.

The quality of teaching is outstanding. Teachers have a very good knowledge and understanding of their pupils and the school's collaborative approach to planning ensures pupils consistently build on their prior learning. Teachers regularly share ideas, but have fewer opportunities to observe the exemplary practice of others across the school.

Talented and knowledgeable classroom assistants provide effective support in lessons. Pupils' behaviour in lessons and around the school is exemplary. They are delightful.

They are open and friendly and welcoming to visitors. They are keen to do well and work diligently in their lessons. Parents are unanimous in their praise for the school and overwhelmingly agree that the school cares for their children exceedingly well.

Pupils say that they feel very safe and happy in the school, their high attendance paying testament to this. The innovative way the school assists its pupils, in providing them with short, sharp, individual, planned support to meet any specific need is instrumental in ensuring all pupils have conviction in their ability to succeed. The headteacher provides outstanding leadership.

He receives excellent support from a dedicated, buoyant staff and a committed governing body that is not afraid to hold the school to account. As a result, teaching and pupils' achievement have improved since the previous inspection and the school continues to move ever forward. The school is a warm and vibrant community where pupils relish the responsibilities they are given in the school and develop as confident individuals.

Information about this school

The school is a much smaller than the average-sized primary school. Pupils move on to their next school at the end of Year 5. All pupils are of White, British heritage.

There is currently a smaller than average number of pupils supported by the pupil premium. The pupil premium is additional funding for those pupils who are known to be eligible for free school meals, children from service families and those children who are looked after by the local authority. The proportion of pupils supported by school action is below the average for schools nationally.

The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational need is below average. There is a breakfast- and after-school club called the Sunshine Club. This is run by the governing body and operated by staff in the school.