Waterside Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The headteacher was appointed recently at the end of a period during which pupils' outcomes had fallen sharply. She has provided strong leadership and, with the support of her highly effective deputy, has ensured that this is now a good and rapidly improving school. Leaders have ensured better teaching and outcomes since the previous inspection.

Safeguarding is effective. Pupils feel safe. Staff are well trained in this area.

The introduction of new systems for tracking individual pupils' progress is having a positive effect on outcomes. Disadvantaged pupils are making strong progress. The difference between their progress and that of oth...er pupils is diminishing quickly.

Governors know the school well and are supportive in their roles. They challenge leaders and hold them to account for their actions effectively. Rates of pupils' attendance have improved since the last inspection, as a result of leaders' effective actions.

Teaching is good. It is well planned and supports pupils in their learning. In some classes, however, there is a lack of challenge for the most able pupils.

The introduction of high-quality texts and a focus on vocabulary are having a positive impact on pupils' reading comprehension. However, many pupils at the school are not heard to read regularly enough and many do not read for pleasure. Pupils are well behaved.

They are polite and enjoy engaging visitors in conversation. They behave respectfully towards each other and staff. The developing curriculum is typically broad and balanced and gives pupils many opportunities to learn across a wide range of subjects.

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make good progress. This is due to good-quality teaching and to the effective support provided by teaching assistants. Early years is well led.

Children make good progress through the year and are well prepared for Year 1. Parents and carers are largely very positive about the school. Nearly all parents would recommend the school to other parents.

Information about this school

This is slightly smaller than the average-sized primary school. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is above the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is higher than in schools nationally.

The proportion of pupils with SEND who have an education, health and care plan is below the national average. The proportion of service pupils attending the school is higher than the national average. The headteacher was appointed in January 2018.

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