Main points for action
1. National Tests should be used whenever a teacher believes that a pupil has achieved the appropriate level.
The school had fully met this recommendation.
The school had adjusted its approach to the timing of National Tests. They were now implemented consistently and effectively in accordance with national guidance. The new headteacher monitored the results of National Tests to ensure that pupils attained standards in line with national levels.
2. The school should improve its teaching programmes for writing in English language and for number and problem solving in mathematics.
The school had made good progress in meeting this recommendation.
Staff had improved the programme for English language. They had also acquired enhanced resources for language. The new headteacher was developing the programmes further, to ensure that they gave full emphasis to writing. Pupils now had more opportunities to develop their skills in writing poetry and in imaginative writing. Attainment in writing at the middle stages had improved and was now good.
The mathematics programme had been improved by giving greater emphasis to developing mental skills in using numbers. The school had bought additional resources, enabling staff to introduce further practical mathematical experiences and improve pupils’ ability in problem solving.
3. Teachers should ensure that the pace and challenge of work is appropriate for all pupils, particularly at the middle stages.
The school had made good progress in meeting this recommendation.
Staff had worked together to identify how the pace and challenge of lessons could better meet pupils’ needs. The school now had clear expectations of pace in lessons and rigour in approaches to work, including forward planning.