Whitefield Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school The executive headteacher's determination to provide the highest quality of education for the pupils in her care is exceptional.

She inspires her senior leaders and other staff to fulfil the school's motto, 'Nothing but the best.' Their success is evident in the improvement in all aspects of the school's work since the last inspection. Leaders are unflagging in giving pupils the nurture and support they need to succeed.

As a result, pupils' progress from their different starting points is outstanding. By the end of Year 6, progress in English and mathematics is above the national average. Leaders have pupils' personal development ...and welfare at the heart of what they do.

Their exceptional work in this area directly contributes to the excellent academic success pupils enjoy. Leaders provide a broad and balanced curriculum that they very skilfully adapt to meet pupils' needs. Teachers use their excellent subject knowledge to teach lessons that stimulate and challenge pupils very effectively.

Teachers have high expectations of their pupils' learning and behaviour, which results in excellent progress. Pupils' conduct around the school is impeccable. Pupils greet trusted adults confidently, and are very polite and articulate in conversation.

Pupils' attitudes to learning are outstanding. Children in the early years start school with skills and knowledge that are below, or significantly below, those that are typical for their age. They make excellent progress by the time they leave the Reception class.

Although there are many excellent examples of pupils using their reading, writing and communication skills in other subjects, there are fewer opportunities for them to apply their skills in mathematics.

Information about this school

The school meets requirements on the publication of specified information on its website. This school is slightly larger than the average-sized primary school.

The proportion of pupils supported through school action is above average. The proportion of pupils who receive support for their SEN and/or disabilities is above average. The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is below average.

The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for pupil premium funding is much higher than average. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic groups or who speak English as an additional language is above average. The school operates a breakfast club which is managed by the governing body.

The school meets the current government floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for attainment and progress by the end of Year 6. The school has gained several awards, including the Inclusion Quality Mark and the Early Years Basic Skills Quality Mark. The executive headteacher is also temporarily executive headteacher of another local primary school, where she is leading work to improve the quality of education.