Stewartstown Primary School

Overview

Stewartstown Primary School demonstrates the capacity to identify and bring about improvement in the interest of all learners. The inspection found that standards in mathematics are very good, while provision for learning and leadership are rated as good. The school has one specific area for improvement regarding the role of coordinators.

Strengths

• Standards in mathematics are "very good" across all key stages, with children confidently using mental calculation strategies.
• Children’s "thinking skills and personal capabilities" are very good, particularly their self-management and social skills during group work.
• The quality of provision for numeracy is "very good," featuring a comprehensive whole-school programme and effective use of real-life contexts.
• Pastoral care is "very good," exemplified by a supportive environment and positive involvement in decision-making through the school council.
• Governance arrangements inspire a "high degree of confidence," with governors providing effective support and challenge.

Areas to improve

• Develop the role of the coordinator to "assess, monitor and evaluate more rigorously the quality of the children’s learning experiences."
• Ensure individual education plans for children with additional needs focus more sharply on their specific individual needs and development stages.
• Develop the use of diagnostic and formative assessment methods to better inform provision, as current assessment is variable.

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.