Dunston Hill Community Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 November 2022

Pupils are treasured by the staff at Dunston Hill Community Primary School. The school's 'three simple rules' are 'ready (to learn), respect (everyone) and kind (in our behaviour)'. The rules are modelled extremely well by all staff, so that pupils learn to make the right choices. Pupils understand the 'three simple rules' as values for life. This helps pupils to learn without disruption. Staff are highly motivated to do their best for pupils. This is because they are effectively supported by leaders. Staff encourage and support pupils to do well in their lessons. This includes pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Most pupils work with enthusiasm. Regular reminders of previous learning help pupils remember well. Pupils say bullying is rare. They know to tell staff in school if they are worried. Staff are quick to sort out problems, and they make sure pupils resolve differences with friends. Pupils spoken with say that they feel safe in school. There are high levels of respect between staff and pupils. Pupils look after each other by being playground leaders. Pupils' welfare is a priority. Their mental well-being and behaviour are well supported by staff. Pupils enjoy the 'over and above' rewards, such as hot chocolate with the headteacher and eating at the 'Golden Table'. These incentives motivate pupils to show exemplary behaviour and manners.

What the school should improve

• In a few foundation subjects, such as art and design, some teachers in some lessons do not regularly check pupils' understanding or provide clear feedback so that pupils can improve their work. As a result, some pupils who need additional support or further practice do not always receive this. Some pupils find it harder to build on their learning within the lesson and over time. Leaders should ensure that all teachers are making regular checks on pupils' understanding in lessons and use these checks to target support for the pupils who most need it.
• Some younger pupils do not write letters and numbers correctly. This means that these pupils do not write fluently. The speed of their writing is slowed. Leaders are aware of this. Leaders should work to ensure sufficient time and practice for pupils to improve. They should ensure the expectations for the correct formation of letters and digits are followed consistently by all staff so that pupils write clearly and fluently.

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