A County Durham primary school at the heart of its local community is celebrating after receiving a highly positive Ofsted report.
Government inspectors found that Hartside Primary Academy in Crook demonstrated strong standards in Early Years provision, inclusion, and personal development and wellbeing.
The report further confirmed that the school, which is part of the Advance Learning Partnership (ALP), was at ‘Expected standard’ in all other areas: Achievement, Attendance and Behaviour, Curriculum and Teaching, and Leadership and Governance.
Welcoming the findings, headteacher Dawn Simpson praised the role people across the local area play in the day-to-day life of the school, which she described as “the heart of the community”.
“This report really does capture what life is like at Hartside every day – not just the two days that Ofsted are in the building,” she said.
“Hartside is a wonderful example of the impact that can be made when school, a community, and a trust all work together. Having everyone on board makes such a difference, and you can feel that.
“We are very lucky that ALP offer us such fantastic support, while recognising that we know our area, and allowing us the autonomy to do what works best for the children.”
Inspectors agreed, writing: “Leaders build trusting relationships with parents, carers and the wider community.
“Their commitment to open communication creates a welcoming culture of true partnership.”
Ofsted concluded that pupils at Hartside Primary “enjoy their learning”, adding that “a focus on ensuring that younger pupils have the foundations to be effective readers supports pupils to develop the knowledge they need to succeed.”
The report also highlighted the school’s approach to Inclusion, with inspectors noting: “Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieve well.
“They leave school with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for the next stage of their education.”
While the report confirmed that the school was performing at or above all required standards, Ms Simpson nevertheless insisted that Hartside would continue to improve.
“Phonics is a big area of development for us, and it was encouraging that the report also recognised that our refocused efforts in this subject are already proving effective.
“Likewise, I’m pleased that we are now seeing strong improvements in our work with persistent absenteeism, and individuals are making good progress, but we understand there is still work to do.
“I want to express my gratitude to all the staff, families, and pupils who were crucial in helping us achieve this result.”
