Armathwaite School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 September 2022

Pupils are very happy coming to Armathwaite School. Leaders' belief that 'it takes a whole community to raise a child' is exemplified through the positive relationships that pupils have with staff and the wider school community. Pupils feel that staff listen to their ideas and any worries that they may have. Pupils trust adults to deal with their concerns quickly and effectively, including rare incidents of bullying. This helps them to feel safe. Leaders have high expectations of pupils' behaviour and learning, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils rise to these expectations. As a result, most pupils achieve well. Pupils enjoy taking a lead in their own learning for an afternoon every week. They plan, organise and evaluate individual projects during this time, such as fundraising and raising awareness of local and global events. Pupils understand and value the importance of being independent and resilient learners. This helps them to be engaged in their learning. Pupils appreciate the opportunities to be role models. Older pupils thrive in their role as buddies to children in the early years and pupils in key stage 1. Pupils support and participate in community initiatives such as a local biodiversity project. This helps pupils to become responsible and considerate citizens.

What the school should improve

• In a minority of subjects, leaders have not ensured that some staff have the knowledge and expertise to deliver the curriculum as effectively as they should. This stops some pupils from building up their knowledge as well as leaders intend. Leaders should ensure that staff receive further training to deliver the curriculum well in these subjects.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)