Ballyholme Primary School

Overview

Ballyholme Primary School is described as having a “high level of capacity for sustained improvement in the interest of all the learners.” The inspection found “very good” standards in achievements, provision for learning, and leadership, underpinned by a “distinct child-centred ethos.” Parents and staff reported “very high levels of satisfaction” with the school’s “caring supportive atmosphere.”

Strengths

• “Most of the children achieve very good standards in literacy and numeracy,” with those requiring additional support also making strong progress.
• “Pastoral care in the school is outstanding,” with the rights of the child effectively embedded into the culture to support holistic development.
• “Almost all of the lessons observed were good or better,” with half rated “very good or outstanding” due to clear exposition and effective assessment.
• The senior leadership team is “highly effective,” providing clear strategic direction and fostering a culture of “open communication and professional respect.”
• Children are “happy, enthusiastic learners” who interact confidently with peers and take pride in their high-standard work.

Areas to improve

• The report advises the school to “disseminate the very good practice existing in the school and build on the capacity of all staff to support the growing range of identified needs” for children requiring additional learning support.

Safeguarding

The school has “comprehensive arrangements in place for safeguarding children” which reflect Department of Education guidance, and older pupils reported feeling “happy and secure” and knowing how to raise concerns.