The Gateway Primary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 June 2022

Pupils love learning in this school. They are incredibly proud to talk about how they can become better learners by being resourceful and resilient. They use the colourful classroom displays to help them talk knowledgeably about ambitious ideas like mathematical probability. They read a vast range of well-selected books where teachers encourage them to imagine themselves as a character in the story. Guest speakers like scientists, chefs, key workers and engineers visit the school. Their stories inspire pupils to want to learn more. Leaders have high expectations of pupils, expecting them to always strive to do their best. Pupils listen keenly to their teachers and act upon the regular feedback they get. The 'golden rules' set clear expectations for all. Pupils eagerly collect headteacher stickers and 'Value Stars' during the weekly rewards assembly. The relationships between pupils and staff are warm and nurturing. Pupils trust the adults to keep them safe and help them. As one pupil explained, 'It is good to make a mistake, as it is another chance to try again.' Pupils behave well in lessons and when playing with friends. They do not worry about bullying because staff help them to sort out problems as soon as they are reported.

What the school should improve

• In subjects such as PE and design technology, leaders are in the process of identifying and ordering the skills and knowledge that they want all pupils to know. This also means that assessment is not yet aligned with the curriculum in these subjects to identify where pupils are making progress and who needs further support. Leaders should ensure that the curriculum in all subjects is fully sequenced to help pupils build knowledge effectively over time. It is clear from leaders' actions that they have taken significant steps already to bring this about. For this reason, the transitional arrangements have been applied.

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