Yealand Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Pupils are proud to attend this small Church of England primary school. They feel safe and valued. Staff and pupils build positive relationships that foster a sense of belonging. This encourages pupils to attend school regularly. Pupils behave well. They treat each other with care and respect. Older pupils instinctively look after younger ones. At social times, pupils play creatively with the equipment and games available, for example making domino runs with play bricks. Younger pupils take turns and share bikes on the school's road track. When pupils fall out, staff deal with issues effectively. Pupils enjoy learning and want to achieve well. In lessons, they generally stay focused and work with increasing independence. Pupils collaborate effectively during group tasks. In mathematics, they apply new skills to solve problems. However, pupils do not consistently demonstrate their knowledge in some subjects. Some pupils are not supported to secure important knowledge and skills in their reading and writing. This hinders their progress through the curriculum and prevents them from achieving all that they are capable of. Pupils relish the activities that leaders organise for them. These are provided for all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities. Activities enrich pupils’ experiences and strengthen their subject knowledge. For example, they visit landmarks studied in geography lessons. Pupils talk enthusiastically about theatre trips, city tours and residential visits. Pupils enjoy learning in the local woodland area. They have also designed features in the school grounds, such as a mud kitchen. The school council is proactive and contributes positively to local and national charities. Pupils feel proud to sponsor Chompy, a rescued dog.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that phonics is taught consistently well so that pupils build secure foundations in reading.
• Leaders should ensure that staff, including in the early years, prioritise the teaching of basic skills, including correct pencil grip and letter formation, so that pupils achieve all that they can and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
• Leaders should ensure that teachers deliver the curriculum as it is intended so that pupils can develop a deeper understanding across all areas of learning.

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