Children at St Helen’s are ‘enthusiastic and eager to learn’, say inspectors
Pupils are proud to attend St Helen’s Primary School in Hartlepool, say school inspectors in a new report, who add that it is “at the heart of its local community.”
Leaders and staff at the school share high expectations for all pupils, continues the Ofsted report, following an inspection in early April. “It is brought to life through the ambitious curriculum and the school’s wider offer beyond classroom.
“Pupils rise to the expectations set for them and achieve well in school.”
St Helen’s is part of Northern Lights Learning Trust. Headteacher Marcus Newing said: “We are pleased that Ofsted inspectors had a chance to see some of the wonderful work done across the school and in our local community. They said children are enthusiastic and eager to learn – which I agree with – and I’d like to say a special thank-you to them and parents, carers, staff and governors who all helped show inspectors how fantastic the school is!”
The report noted that pupils work in calm and purposeful classrooms. They behave well in and around school. Pupils know that, if they have a worry or concern, adults in school are quick to help them.
“Pupils are encouraged to be kind and respectful members of the school and local area. Pupils understand how they can make a difference for themselves and each other. Thoughtful community work with local older residents in school and contributions to the local food bank help pupils to understand the difference they can make in the world,” the report says.
There was praise, too, for St Helens’ outlook on children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND): “The school is skilful in identifying pupils with SEND. In classrooms, staff support pupils with SEND to use a range of resources well.”
The report goes on to say that the school has carefully considered how the personal, social and health education curriculum works together with the rest of its offer. Aspects such as fundamental British values are woven through the school’s ethos and are a part of everyday life. Pupils are able to talk with precision and detail about their understanding. They are also knowledgeable about aspects of protected characteristics. “Moral Mondays” help pupils to think about their behaviour and beliefs.
Jo Heaton OBE, Chief Executive of Northern Lights, said: “It is fantastic to see the excellent provision at St Helen’s formally recognised by Ofsted.
“Everyone works extremely hard across Northern Lights and in St Helen’s school to ensure our children receive the best provision. I know the St Helen’s school community provide a special educational experience for our children and am delighted that this has been acknowledged in the report. Congratulations to Headteacher Marcus Newing and his talented team, for ensuring the school continues to go from strength to strength.”
• Photo shows Marcus Newing, Headteacher of St Helen’s Primary Schools with pupils celebrating their Ofsted report. Also pictured, back left, is Laura Wallace, Deputy Headteacher with Emma Hutton, Assistant Headteacher.
