Wednesday, November 1st 2023

Dear Parents /Carers,

As you are aware, the school had a full Ofsted Inspection on the 3rd and 4th October 2023 and I am delighted to confirm that Seaburn Dene continues to be rated a GOOD school. I enclose a copy of the report for you.

Excerpts from Ofsted Inspection report: Seaburn Dene Primary School, 3rd and 4th October 2023.

"The school encourages pupils to ‘dream big, show determination and be respectful and kind’. They respond to this challenge. Pupils play and learn together in harmony. Disputes and fallings-out are rare. The school is typified by order and calm."

"Pupils talk about the fun they have in learning and how they are supported if they feel unsure about new knowledge.
Pupils’ needs lie at the heart of the school’s well-developed curriculum. The essential knowledge that pupils must learn and retain is crystal clear. This allows checks to be made on the knowledge pupils have acquired. Well-sequenced lessons build on the knowledge pupils have learned already."

"Pupils achieve well, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). These pupils’ needs are identified early so that additional help is provided that is tailored to these needs."

"Reading has a high profile in school through class book areas and the library. Pupils love being read a story, irrespective of their age, because texts are carefully chosen to capture their interest."

"The school seeks to raise pupils’ aspirations and career goals through links to businesses, including car manufacturing, engineering, public transport and the construction industry. Visits, such as to the mayoral offices and places of worship for different faiths, broaden pupils’ understanding. Pupils experience the performing arts, such as working with two members of the Royal Northern Sinfonia and watching theatrical productions, including a French opera."

The summary evaluation of the inspection is as follows:
Overall effectiveness: Good
Quality of education: Good
Personal development: Good
Behaviours and Attitudes: Good
Leadership and Management: Good
Early Years Provision: Good

The report is certainly worth a more thorough read as it is overwhelmingly positive and reflects the progress we have made as a school since our last inspection in 2018.

We are particularly proud that pupils’ behaviour in and around school has been recognised as excellent. Ofsted wrote, "Pupils are polite and caring to each other, adults and visitors. They said that disputes and fallings-out were rare and when it does happen, that adults will listen and sort it out quickly and positively."

During the two days, extensive feedback was given which did not make the final report, but reflected positively on our school. My thanks go to the children, parents, carers, governors and all the staff for giving so much to our school.

As a school, we will continue to strive to improve
I know that I will have your support in the work we will be doing together to make Seaburn Dene Primary School exceptional for all our pupils.

Mr John Howe
Headteacher