Bede Burn Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 March 2023

Leaders and staff have created a caring and welcoming school. Pupils are happy and safe. Leaders, staff and governors have high expectations for all pupils. Pupils achieve well in phonics, reading and mathematics. Leaders have revised the curriculum and teaching of other subjects, such as science and geography. This is helping pupils to gain important knowledge. The school's curriculum helps pupils to develop their understanding of diversity in society by learning about different cultures and beliefs. Sensitive staff guidance helps Reception children learn the school's routines. Pupils behave very well in lessons. At breaktimes and lunchtimes, they socialise and play in a friendly manner. Incidents of bullying are rare. Staff take these seriously, and take suitable action to resolve them. Pupils have a secure understanding of what bullying is and they are confident that staff will support them if they have concerns. The vast majority of parents have a positive view of the school. They find staff approachable, helpful and supportive. Parents like the range of clubs, including breakfast club, available for pupils' personal and social development. Parents like finding out about their child's work at the 'come observe our learning' visits into school.

What the school should improve

• Key stage 2 staff have not received the same level of training in early reading and phonics as key stage 1 staff. This can constrain the support that they can provide to pupils who need extra help with early reading. Leaders should ensure that the planned training is delivered for all staff.
• In some subjects, pupils find it more difficult to retain knowledge than they do in others. Leaders should work with staff to help pupils to remember important knowledge across all subjects.
• Leaders' plans for the recently developed early years outdoor learning area have not been implemented. This development has not fully impacted on Reception children's learning. Leaders should implement their plans to maximise children's learning opportunities in the outdoor environment, including making effective use of the recently revised early years curriculum plans.

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