Thurstonland Endowed Voluntary Controlled 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 at the end of Year 5 that are well above those expected for their age in reading, writing and mathematics.

Pupils' achievement in reading is particularly strong. They use their reading and writing skills exceptionally well in different subjects and for many purposes. They have fewer opportunities, however, to use their mathematical skills in different subjects or to solve problems in real-life situations.

Children get off to an excellent start in the Early Years Foundation Stage. They are eager to learn as they explore the exciting range of activi...ties in the classroom and outdoors. They are extremely well prepared for Year 1.

The quality of teaching is outstanding. Teachers have a very good understanding of how well pupils are doing and plan very carefully to build on their prior learning and understanding. Skilful and experienced teaching assistants provide valuable support in lessons.

Pupils' behaviour is exemplary, both in lessons and during break times. They are polite and respectful, work hard and are keen to do well. Their enjoyment of coming to school is reflected in their above-average attendance.

Pupils say that they feel very safe and well looked after in school. Parents are overwhelmingly positive in their support for the school. They express total confidence in the headteacher and other staff, and are very appreciative of the individual care and attention their children receive.

The curriculum is rich and varied. It provides a range of experiences which mean that pupils thrive personally, as well as academically. Outstanding leadership by the headteacher, together with the support and commitment of the governing body, have led to marked improvements in achievement and the quality of teaching since the last inspection.

The headteacher has very successfully shared her views on how the school can improve further with all staff and, as a result, there are high levels of teamwork. Members of the governing body show a clear understanding of how well the school is doing. They support the school and rigorously hold it to account.

Information about this school

This school is 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.

The proportion of pupils supported through school action is below average. The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is below average. There are currently no pupils eligible for support through 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. Thurstonland and Stocksmoor Out-of-School-Club provides a breakfast and after-school club. These are not run by the school's governing body and are subject to separate inspections and the reports are available on the Ofsted website at www.

ofsted.gov.uk.