A primary school in County Durham has received its latest Ofsted report – and here is what it says.

Shotton Primary School, in Shotton Colliery, received an “expected standard” in early years and inclusion, and “needs attention” in achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing.

According to Ofsted inspectors, pupils “feel a sense of belonging at this unique school”.

The report states: “It is a welcoming place where everyone is included.

Shotton Primary School, in Shotton Colliery.

placeholder image — Shotton Primary School, in Shotton Colliery.

"Pupils feel safe, cared for and grow into kind, polite and friendly individuals.

"Children in the early years provision have warm relationships with the adults who care for them.”

Pupils at this school “achieve well” and learn the skills needed to be “fluent readers and accurate writers”.

The report states: “By the end of year six, most pupils have the knowledge and skills they need to be ready for secondary school.

"Most of the school's published outcomes in reading, writing and mathematics exceed national averages.”

Inspectors did recognise a number of areas where staff and leaders could make improvements however.

According to Ofsted inspectors, attendance at this school over recent years has been significantly below the national average.

This applies to all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and or disabilities.

While pupils at this school perform well in reading, writing and mathematics, further work is needed to “ensure all subjects are of equal quality”.

The report states: “Leaders should ensure that staff teach important knowledge and skills consistently well across all subjects, making use of ongoing assessment to check whether pupils have any gaps that need to be closed.

“Leaders should ensure that pupils develop deep and secure knowledge across the school's personal, social, health and economic curriculum, particularly of protected characteristics and fundamental British values.”

Leaders have been praised for engaging with parents and carers, and most parents “speak highly of the school and its management”.

Nevertheless, inspectors have advised leaders to strengthen communication and relationships with parents and carers “to support a more effective partnership on the school's continued improvement journey”.

Shotton Primary School has been contacted by the Echo for comment.