Cullercoats Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 February 2022

Pupils say that they love being in school. They say that other pupils are 'friendly, kind, understanding and helpful'. They know how to keep themselves safe. They understand the systems in place during the pandemic, like using sanitisers and being in class 'bubbles'. Pupils are delighted these safety precautions are ending. One group is especially pleased they can use the cloakrooms again. Pupils maintain that behaviour is good and there is no bullying. Teachers sort out arguments quickly but expect pupils to 'sort out “silly arguments” themselves'. Pupils run off excess energy at breaktimes. They like the equipment they have, set out by sports leaders. Year 2 enjoy 'Wonky Wednesday' break, when they pair up with a classmate they do not usually play with. New friendships are made. Pupils are fulsome in their praise for school dinners, which always include the option of a vegetarian meal or a baked potato. Teachers expect great things from pupils, but pupils also aspire to great things themselves. Year 4 pupils set goals for the year. These include writing a book of poems and swimming in the sea every day. Class points are valued. The Year 6 winner receives a cushion to sit on for the next week. Pupils enjoy the clubs on offer at lunchtime but also after school. 'Chill Zone Friday' is a firm favourite.

What the school should improve

• The quality of the planning and sequencing in some foundation subjects varies. Essential knowledge that pupils need is not specified in all curriculum subjects. Pupils are then unable to apply this knowledge to more-complex concepts within that subject. Leaders should ensure that all subjects include defined knowledge content. It is clear from leaders' actions that they are in the process of bringing this about. For this reason, the transitional arrangements have been applied.

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