Dunston Hill Community Primary School

Overview

Dunston Hill Community Primary School continues to be a good school, where pupils are ‘treasured by the staff’ and learn within a culture defined by the ‘three simple rules’ of being ready, respectful, and kind. Leaders provide effective support for staff, who are ‘highly motivated to do their best for pupils’, resulting in an environment where bullying is rare and pupils feel safe. The school prioritises pupil welfare, offering meaningful opportunities for personal development and strong community links.

Strengths

• The teaching of reading is a strength, with staff possessing ‘expert knowledge’ and ensuring books are ‘well matched to the letters and sounds’ pupils know.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive effective support, as plans ‘link closely to assessment information’ and the SENCo works well with parents and professionals.
• Staff model positive behaviour effectively, helping pupils to ‘learn without disruption’ and make ‘the right choices’.
• Governors have a ‘thorough knowledge of the school’ and ensure funding is spent appropriately so that ‘every pupil benefits’.
• Pupils enjoy ‘over and above’ rewards and leadership roles, such as playground leaders, which motivate them to show ‘exemplary behaviour’.

Areas to improve

• In some foundation subjects, such as art and design, teachers do not regularly check pupils’ understanding or provide clear feedback, meaning some pupils do not receive necessary support.
• Some younger pupils do not write letters and numbers correctly, which slows their writing speed and prevents them from writing fluently; leaders should ensure consistent expectations for correct formation.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with thorough record-keeping, quick action on concerns, and strong relationships between staff and pupils that help identify those at risk.