Stranton Primary School
Only the best is good enough

Parent and Pupil Feedback

For all we only do questionnaires once a year there is an online platform available for all parents to leave comments about our school – the information on this site is available for OFSTED to look at when performing an inspection so if you have 2 minutes spare please log on to the website below and give your opinions online.

www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/

2023/24 Parent Questionnaire Findings

Below you will see a summary of findings, followed by some commentary about some of the issues you have shared with us. If you have any questions about this process, or have any issues which have come up throughout the year, please do not hesitate to contact school directly.

/i/video/Stranton_Primary_School_Autumn_2023_Parent_Survey__1_.mp4

My Child is Happy at this School

Our main priority, above all else, is to ensure our children are happy in our school. For us to get the best from our children, it is vital that we work in partnership to overcome any issues your child is experiencing. At Stranton, we are lucky to have incredibly caring staff that invest a great deal of time into getting to know the children they work with on a personal level. We also use the Zones of Regulation at Stranton, which helps staff to identify any children who may be unhappy at school and children are actively encouraged to discuss how they are feeling. In addition to this, we have worry jars in every classroom where children can write down their worry for an adult to address. As a result, staff are able to identify when a child may need some emotional support to ensure they have only positive experiences at school. However, we do acknowledge that there may be times issues can be missed. If your child is currently unhappy, please contact school as a matter of urgency so this can be discussed further and any issues be resolved.

This school makes me aware of what my child will learn during the year

At the beginning of each term, a Key Stage Newsletter is sent out to all parents outlining the units/topics the children will be taught that term. These are shared via Seesaw and Stranton’s Facebook page and are also uploaded onto the school website. Parents can also view the full curriculum for each year group on the school website. As a school we follow the National Curriculum which can also be accessed via our website. If parents would like more in-depth details about what your child will be taught throughout the year, please contact school who will be happy to provide you with any additional documentation/details.

My Child has Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) and the School gives them the support they need to succeed.

As a school we strive to identify the individual needs of every child and act quickly to meet these whether they are academic or emotional – something which we feel we do very well as a school. At Stranton, we operate a graduated response to supporting all pupils including those with additional learning needs; the initial response being through Quality First Teaching. In our school, most children will be taught in a mainstream class. However, where a child with a SEND need is working in a mainstream class, additional support will be given either in class, or in a small targeted group led by experienced support staff. For those children who require more specialist support, we also offer two enhanced provision classrooms. These classes have a maximum of 15 pupils with a high staffing ratio. This enhanced provision enables the children to to access an appropriate curriculum matched to their developmental level, accelerating pupil progress in reading, writing and maths and boosting children’s confidence and engagement in learning. Our second graduated response is to provide targeted intervention for children with identified needs or those who may need some extra ‘catch-up’. We offer a range of small group intervention programmes that can help to accelerate pupil progress/provide emotional support. Depending on the needs of individual children, they will access different interventions led by trained teaching assistants. The progress within these interventions are closely monitored and tracked half-termly to measure impact and ensure their effectiveness. In addition to this, for the children who require more bespoke support, we offer a range of individualised programmes, usually created in liaison with external agencies such as Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy. Children will have dedicated time each week to work on an individual basis with a teaching assistant to complete activities linked to their personal targets. Progress within these sessions is monitored by school and other agencies and next steps are decided collectively through multi-agency meetings and discussions. Furthermore, the SENDCo will develop effective partnerships and liaise with key professionals and facilitate parental access. These may include Educational Psychologists, Child and Adolescent Mental health Service (CAMHS), School Nurse/Community Paediatrician, Physiotherapy team and the Visually Impaired/ Hearing Impaired Support. We believe in a fully inclusive approach to supporting pupils with additional needs. This means working in partnership with parents or carers to support their child in whatever way we can to enable individuals to achieve their potential. We actively encourage parents to come into school and discuss concerns with the class teacher, Miss Sengelow, myself or Mr Nottingham.

The school has high expectations for my child / My child does well at this school

I would like to remind you of our school’s philosophy ‘Where Only the Best is Good Enough!’ This does not only apply to our children but also to our staff; who through their exceptionally high expectations, work tirelessly to ensure all children make outstanding progress during their time at Stranton. Our children’s exceptional work in books, performance in class and behaviour in and around school demonstrate just high our expectations are. Our rigorous assessment system helps to identify any children falling behind and the appropriate intervention is implemented. The children are then carefully tracked and monitored to ensure they are making the necessary progress to meet the expectations of the curriculum. In the case of underperformance, we also assess the wellbeing of our children to determine if their emotional needs are hindering their academic progress. As a school, we really value the support of parents/carers and where we feel parents can provide additional support at home, teachers will discuss this with you. At Stranton Primary School, we operate an open door policy and actively encourage parents to come into school to discuss any issues or concerns with us.

The school lets me know how my child is doing

As a school, we work exceptionally hard to work alongside parents to ensure the best possible education for all of our children. We strive to create positive working relationships with parents and welcome parents into school throughout the year for meet and greets, workshops, statutory test meetings and other whole school events to engage parents in their child’s school life. We begin in September, by inviting parents into school for a meet and greet session. This is followed by parent consultation evening with the teacher in October. Where parents are unable to attend, an alternative date and time or phone appointment is offered so teachers can discuss how the children have settled into school life and their progress so far. Like in previous years, staff write a mid-year report in February as well as an end of year report to inform parents of their child’s progress. In July, parents are invited to attend another consultation with the teacher. Where a child has a SEND need, parents are invited into school more frequently (generally at the end of each term) to discuss the children’s progress against their targets on their pupil passports. If staff have concerns about a child, they or a member of the inclusion team will contact parents to discuss this. Where parents feel they have been uninformed or have concerns of their own, we really do encourage them to contact school or drop in to discuss this further.

There is a good range of subjects available to my child at this school

When designing our curriculum, we took a number of key factors into consideration; which provided the foundation for our curriculum. They include ensuring that the curriculum:

Has the needs of the children at the heart of everything we do
Is based on a strong foundation of oracy
Meets the needs of our local community
Is full of exciting, enriching and enjoyable learning experiences
Provides opportunities for our children, staff and parents to all learn together
Positively improves academic outcomes
Prepares our children to become positive role models in, and effective contributors to Society
Gives our pupils the chance to become the very best versions of themselves.

We believe our curriculum provides only the very best education, opportunities and experiences for all of our pupils – the work the children produce in school is testament to this. In school our broad and balanced curriculum includes English, maths, science, art, design and technology, music, religious education, physical education, history, geography, computing and personal, social, health and economical education (including relationships and sex education). In addition to this, where necessary, we also deliver life skills, mindfulness, play outdoors and forest school sessions to enrich the children’s experiences and prepare them for the challenges life may bring.

My child takes part in clubs and activities at this School

At Stranton, we ensure that all children from Year 1 to Year 6 are given the opportunity to participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities during their time at school and we strive to offer a range of activities from sport and drama to personal development and wellbeing. We believe that there are a whole range of benefits that come from involvement in these activities. Depending on the children’s interests, they may provide the chance to get outside and exercise, pursue a hobby, develop a passion or simply de-stress and refresh their mind. Being part of these groups or teams also provides a sense of belonging, with the extra-curricular activities offering an opportunity for our children to interact and socialise with others with similar interests and potentially build friendships outside of their usual circle. Places in clubs are allocated on a first come first serve basis in order to make this fair for all. Where a club is oversubscribed, children are placed on a waiting list and should a space become available these children will be offered a place. Children in Reception are invited to clubs later in the year once they are ready for an extended school day. We want as many children as possible to take part in extra-curricular activities and welcome any feedback from parents on ways we can improve what we have to offer.

The School supports my child’s wider personal development

At Stranton we believe our curriculum extends beyond the academic. It provides children with the opportunity to develop and discover their interests and talents. Our school’s wider work including the School Council, Rights Respecting, Eco Warriors, Play Rangers, Wellbeing Warriors, themed events (e.g. anti-bullying and children mental health week), careers day, ELSA and work experience programme all help develop children’s character – including their resilience, confidence and independence – and helps them know how to keep physically and mentally healthy. Through our morning meetings, daily assemblies, oracy curriculum, social and emotional learning within English and our PSHE and RE curriculum, we aim to prepare children for future success and for life in modern Britain by equipping them to be responsible, respectful, active citizens who contribute positively to society and by developing their understanding of the British values and appreciation of diversity.

My child has been bullied and the School dealt with the bullying quickly

It is vitally important that every parent knows that any incidents that may arise are taken with the upmost seriousness and urgency. We operate a zero tolerance policy towards bullying of any kind. Preventing and raising awareness of bullying is a high priority in school. Through assemblies, PSHE lessons (following the Jigsaw Programme) and during anti-bullying week, pupils are given regular opportunities to discuss what bullying is, as well as incidents we would not describe as bullying. Our Golden Rules are also reinforced daily, promoted in assemblies and displayed throughout the school to remind the children of our expectations and prevent any bullying incidents. Pupils are taught to tell an adult in school if they are concerned that they or someone they know is being bullied. Where a child feels unable to discuss this with an adult in school, children are invited to record their concerns and place them in their class worry jar.

It is vital that parents can also identify the difference between bullying and common issues that can occur between children in school, which will be shared in our next safeguarding newsletter. Before concluding that your child is being bullied, it is important to establish the full facts by speaking to your child’s teacher or arranging an appointment with myself or Mr Nottingham via the school office; or if it is a pressing issue and involves the safety or welfare of a child, parents should contact Mrs Johnson or Mrs Wilson via the School reception. If an allegation of bullying is upheld, a restorative approach will be used and school will work to reconcile the pupils. If the bullying continues, parents will be invited into school for a meeting to discuss the problem further and mediating meetings, with both parents and pupils present may be used to resolve issues. Where appropriate, other consequences may also be implemented such as loss of privileges, spending playtimes indoors, withdrawal from clubs/school events and managed moves to other schools within the trust.

When I have raised concerns with the school they have been dealt with properly

We cannot emphasise enough how vital it is that you contact myself or Mr Nottingham if you have raised a concern and feel it has not been fully addressed. Creating and maintaining positive parent partnerships is so important to us – it is part of our ethos so it is essential to keep the lines of communication open. We will always listen to parents’ views and gather all of the facts before reaching an amicable solution. It's in everybody's best interests that any issues are resolved as quickly as possible - ultimately we all want the same thing – for our children to feel safe and happy in school; and receive an outstanding education so they are well prepared for secondary school and beyond.

Overall, we are very happy with the feedback given – it is good to know that the vast majority of children enjoy attending Stranton Primary School and that parents are happy with the education we provide. We really value your feedback so we can continue to ensure your children is given the best possible education and experiences.

Parent Comments

I thought it would be nice to share with you some of the positive comments provided… thank you once again for taking the time to give us your very important feedback.

'Can would just like to say how amazing the staff at this school actually are not just for the children, but also the work behind the scenes they do for families and parents! Always going that extra step to help and showing nothing but kindness, empathy, understanding, support in a friendly none- judgement environment for anyone and everyone! Massive shout out to Mrs Johnson for always being there when I need to chew her ears off and also Mrs Wilson for all her help and support. It's not easy as an adult or parent to accept help or admit when life is challenging but these two women are superhero's. Thank you - I will be forever grateful.'

'In my opinion Stranton Primary is an excellent school. Staff are passionate and have high expectations for all pupils. This has a positive impact on the pupils and families.'

'I am totally satisfied with school I really appreciate them for their hard work.'

'Any problems dealt with quickly. Also pushed my child to meet their ability.'

'I couldn't be happier with the staff at Stranton primary they go above and beyond for all parents and students.'

‘Seeing my child's learning journal has made me smile. I love seeing how happy he is at Stranton. He loves being at school.'

‘I am so pleased with how much my child has progressed in the short time he's been here - he gets better everyday.'

'Brilliant school with great teachers.'

‘I have heard people speaking very highly of the school and I am very happy how my son has settled.'

‘I really do love this school and would recommend it to anyone.'

‘The school dealt with the needs of my child promptly, professionally and sufficiently, which we have found very reassuring.'

'I am over the moon with how my child us progressing and learning, especially promoting her love of reading.

'Stranton is a fantastic school with lots of amazing, friendly and approachable staff who are always willing to help and often go above and beyond to do this.'

'Brilliant school, it meets all of my child's needs and more.'

'Great to be part of a school with high standards that have managed to maintain a school/home family ethos.'

2023/24 Pupil Questionnaire

We recently asked our children to complete a questionnaire as their thoughts and opinions are very important to us. Below is a summary of the findings.

/i/video/Stranton_Primary_School_Autumn_2023_Pupil_Survey.mp4

Do you like coming to school?

I am so pleased to see that so many of you enjoy coming to school. You will not realise this now but these are the most enjoyable and fun times of your life and we want everyone to love coming to our school. We know that sometimes school can be challenging but your teacher and all of the other staff are all here to help you. You should never feel alone and know that you can always speak to an adult if you have any worries about coming to school. Your teachers work so hard to try to make your school day stimulating and purposeful and want to make learning fun! We would love to know how we can make school a more enjoyable experience so please share your ideas with your teacher.

Do you like our school building? / Do any parts of our building make you worried or scared? / Do you feel safe on your way to school?

It is so important to us that everyone likes our school building and feels comfortable in the surroundings – after all you spend a huge amount of time in school. Recently we have transformed many areas of school to create warm and inviting learning environments. There are some rooms in school that are not used as often as others and sometimes can feel quiet and empty; however, there is nothing to feel worried or scared about – these are areas are clean and safe and accessible to everyone. If you ever feel worried about the school building, please share these worries with an adult and we would always welcome your suggestions on how to make our school building even better. If you do not feel safe when coming to school, please inform an adult who can hopefully help with your worries. As you are so young, you should always walk to school with an adult and stay by their side at all times. We know that there has been a lot of parents using the car park recently as well as many cars parking outside the school gates near the shops, which are making the area unsafe. We are hoping to have the barrier onto the car park working soon so we can manage the volume of cars using the carpark. We have also rang the council to ask for traffic wardens to come out on a morning and at the end of the day to patrol the area to ensure that it becomes a safe space for children and parents to use.

Do you know who to speak to if you are worried about something outside of school?

At Stranton, we are lucky enough to have so many approachable and friendly adults that you can speak to – even if it isn’t about school. First and foremost, you need to speak to your teacher about any problems or worries, however if you feel that you can’t then maybe speak to the other adult working in your class or another trusting adult. Mrs Johnson and Mrs Wilson are also available to speak with anytime as well as Mrs Grant. In every classroom, we have worry jars so if you do not want to talk about your problem or worry then you could write it down instead and post it in the worry jar, which is regularly checked, and an adult addresses any issues. There are also weekly PSHE lessons and Morning Meeting sessions that take place during the week, which are all about supporting you when you feel upset, worried or anxious. Remember we also have the safeguarding posters all around school showing who you can speak to if you have a problem and what action you can show an adult to indicate you have a concern.

Do you like coming to school?

Do you like playing out at playtime/lunchtime?

Playtime is an opportunity for you to learn outside of the classroom. It teaches you how to form friendships, work with others as part of a team and problem solve/accomplish tasks with friends. It also teaches you how to be a leader and how to follow instructions from others – something many of us find tricky. Playtime also allows you to clear your mind and unwind after being in a classroom setting. Having some time out refreshes you to focus on your lessons once playtime is over. Playtime also improves behaviour in class and allows you to spend some time with your friends. Always make the most of this time out – it is too precious to waste by making poor choices and falling out with others. If playtime becomes a real challenge for you, we will always find a way to support you with this, such as buddying you up with a peer/playtime mentor, providing an opportunity for you to attend a club catered to your interests or giving you a work experience role around school.

Is your classroom a happy classroom?

Creating a happy classroom environment is the key goal for all of our teachers. They all work incredibly hard to make the classroom as fun and relaxing as possible as well as making sure that focused learning is taking place. We know you have very busy days, and the curriculum is jam packed; however, usually at some point during the week, your teacher gives you some free time to help you unwind and relax and have some fun with your peers. To make sure that your classroom is a happy, calm environment, we must have rules in place – this is why we have our school’s golden rules and values. If everyone follows these, school will be a very happy and enjoyable place for everyone. If anything or anyone in your classroom is making you feel unhappy, please talk to an adult about this who will do their best to resolve the issue for you. You also have a worry jar in your class where you can write down your thoughts to share with a member of staff.

Do you feel safe in school? / Can we make school safer for you? / Do you feel safe on your way to school and on your way home? / Are there any areas of the building which make you feel unsafe or scared?

It is so important that every one of you feels safe at our school – feeling safe makes learning possible. When you feel safe, you are able to take the risks needed to explore, and to try new things in school. In school your teachers and teaching assistants try to build relationships with you where you feel free to talk to them about anything. They are always there to listen, provide guidance and will help you feel safe and secure. In school, we teach you how to keep yourself safe through assemblies on issues such as e-safety and stranger danger and during PSHE lessons. We have strict procedures in place to ensure you are safe within school and regularly practise fire and lockdown drills so you know how to keep safe in the unlikely event these things ever happen. Our school is always secure – visitors must sign in at the main reception and nobody can get into school without permission. Some of you have suggested that some rooms feel unsafe when the lights are out; however, to save money and the environment, it is important that lights are kept off when areas, such as the sports hall, aren’t in use. If you do not feel safe when coming to school and going home, please inform an adult who can address your concerns. If you walk home alone perhaps you can buddy up with friends and walk home together or ask that your parents walk with you. We know that there has been a lot of parents using the car park recently as well as many cars parking outside the school gates near the shops, which are making the area unsafe. We are hoping to have the barrier onto the car park working soon so we can manage the volume of cars using the carpark. We have also rang the council to ask for traffic wardens to come out to patrol the area to ensure that it becomes a safe space for children and parents to use. The playground has finally been resurfaced which has reduced the number of injuries on the yard and we hope to get the wooden frames removed from the field and some new equipment put in its place.

Do you know who to talk to if things outside of school worry you? / Do you feel your teachers listen to you?

At Stranton we are lucky enough to have so many approachable and friendly adults that you can speak to should you wish. First and foremost, you need to speak to your teacher about any problems or worries, however if you feel that you can’t then maybe speak to the other adult working in your class or another trusting adult. Mrs Johnson and Mrs Wilson are also available to speak with anytime as well as Mrs Grant. In every classroom, we have worry jars so if you do not want to talk about your problem or worry then you could write it down instead and post it in the worry jar, which is regularly checked, and an adult addresses any issues. There are also weekly PSHE lessons and Morning Meeting sessions that take place during the week, which are all about supporting you when you feel upset, worried or anxious. Remember we also have the safeguarding posters all around school showing who you can speak to if you have a problem and what action you can show an adult to indicate you have a concern.

Overall, we are so happy with the feedback you have given us and will continue to work hard to make school the best it can be for all of our pupils.