Sherdley Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The determination and high expectations of the present headteacher have brought about considerable improvements since his appointment. Since the last inspection, outcomes declined. However, the headteacher has rapidly addressed a legacy of underachievement brought about by staff turbulence and previously weak teaching.

Pupils currently in the school, including those who are disadvantaged, make strong progress in a wide range of subjects. Older pupils are rapidly catching up with what they have missed due to teaching which was previously weak. Supported by the deputy headteacher, the headteacher has reignited a passion and commitment in staff to en...sure that teaching is now consistently good.

However, teachers do not always provide pupils with enough detail on how to improve the quality of their writing. Subject leaders ensure that staff have the up-to-date knowledge and the skills that they need to maintain the quality of teaching. This is resulting in improving achievements for pupils currently in the school.

The overall quality of teaching, learning and assessment is good. Teachers analyse their assessment information rigorously. They have high expectations and strong subject knowledge which they use well to support and challenge pupils' learning.

This is especially strong in the teaching of mathematics and reading. Teaching and leadership of the early years is of the highest quality. Children settle quickly and make good progress.

Parents are encouraged to play an important part in their child's learning. Children are well prepared for Year 1. Pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities are supported well.

Staff are well trained to meet their needs. Parents are pleased with the progress that their children make. Attendance is above the national average.

However, there are a small number of pupils whose parents do not ensure that they attend school as often as they should. Pupils feel safe and enjoy coming to school. They take pride in their work and are proud of their achievements.

Their good conduct in and around the school, good manners, respect and support for each other reflect the positive, caring ethos which has been created within the school

Information about this school

The school meets requirements on the publication of specified information on its website. The school is larger than the average-sized primary school. The percentage of pupils who receive special educational needs support is higher than the average.

There are two pupils supported by an education, health and care plan. The number of pupils who are eligible for support through the pupil premium is slightly above the national average. This includes pupils known to be eligible for free school meals, children from service families and children who are looked after by the local authority.

Most pupils are from White British backgrounds with a small proportion from other ethnic backgrounds. The percentage of pupils who speak English as an additional language is low compared to the national average. In 2016 the school met the government's current floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress.