Ofsted recognises progress at Hartlepool primary school and praises strength of inclusion
A Hartlepool primary school has finished term on a high after achieving a positive Ofsted report.
Eskdale Academy, in Eskdale Road, Hartlepool received a Strong standard for Inclusion and met the expected standard in five other areas covering the school’s curriculum and teaching, leadership and pupils’ personal development.
The school, which has seen recent changes in its leadership, is part of the Eden Academy Trust and had 179 pupils on the roll when Ofsted inspectors visited in June.
Their report said: “Leaders have established thoughtful systems to support staff to quickly identify barriers that pupils may face.”
Ofsted says pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), disadvantaged pupils make “rapid progress”.
The school makes “astute decisions” about where to spend funding adding: “They understand what support pupils need to ensure they thrive.
“As a result, disadvantaged pupils achieve success.”
Reading is a big strength and is prioritised across the school with pupils across achieving highly from low starting points.
The curriculum is "ambitious and well-structured” and teachers regularly check pupils’ understanding.
Children also benefit from a range of opportunities including clubs, educational visits and participation in a range of sports.
Pupils learn how to keep themselves safe, including online, and older ones take pride in their roles as “wellbeing warriors”.
Ofsted said many pupils show determination, respect and empathy towards others daily.
One area that needs attention is attendance and behaviour, with some pupils missing too much of their learning.
However, leaders have recently improved systems to act swiftly when a pupil’s attendance starts to decline, and they work well with external agencies to address issues with attendance.
Headteacher Anthony Emms: “I am incredibly proud that Ofsted recognised the progress we are making as a school.
“To achieve ‘Strong’ standard for Inclusion highlights the level of care and quality of our offer at Eskdale.
“Attendance, despite recent progress, will continue to be prioritised in our work with our children, our engagement of families and the school community and the high level of pastoral care we provide each day.
“The report provides a benchmark for a leadership team in their first year to continue to enhance what we do and ensure the best possible education for the children of Eskdale Academy.”