A POPULAR early years unit, described as a haven of valued care, is urging parents and children to ‘share the love’ on the back of a successful inspection report.
Ainderby Steeple Church of England Primary School won high praise from SIAMS, the Church’s Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools, for living by the Christian vision of ‘do everything in love’, as written in the Bible’s 1 Corinthians 16:14.
Inspectors said: “Families champion the school’s welcoming and nurturing characteristics. Consequently, pupils are warmly embraced, resulting in an extremely effective learning environment. Their behaviour reflects the influence of the vision and the values. The successful impact of the Christian vision at Ainderby Steeple means the school community flourishes.”
The report on the school, which is part of the Dales Academies Trust and is located between Northallerton and Bedale, highlighted the effective bespoke training procured from the diocese. “Lives are changed through bold decisions made by leaders, including governors,” it stated. “It drives all that the school does. The vision is embedded effectively so that its impact is transformative on members of the community.
“The school is a haven of valued care for pupils and families. This provides a sense of security and structure. Nurturing support from staff creates opportunities for pupils, including those considered vulnerable, to excel. Reflective of the vision, a love of self is fostered in tandem with a love of learning.
“Pupils, supported by their families, are known and loved by members of staff. This promotes positive relationships resulting in clear feelings of safety and contentment. As a result, pupils are keen and ready to learn.
“As a result of the vision, the school is highly inclusive. Bespoke provision for pupils who have SEND reflects the emphasis the school places on the uniqueness of each individual. This is rooted in the understanding of love, which is at the core of the vision.”
Nursery and Reception places are available to children from the age of three, free of charge for either 15 or 30 hours a week depending on parents’ circumstances. As well as helping children, it also provides adults with time for themselves, to work, shop or care for their older family.
Head Teacher Rachel Peart, who was delighted with the report, outlined the many benefits of early learning to children, especially the current generation who were born during the isolation of the COVID pandemic.
She said: “We have an amazing play-based curriculum which helps children to develop a host of social skills, including the development of their behaviour whilst supporting them in being independent. This helps them flourish and importantly eases the transition to more formal learning when they transition into Year 1.
“It’s the greatest gift you can give your child to include them in a safe environment, where they can interact with children and adults, which will help them develop supportive relationships which last in adulthood.”
Early years lead Amelia George said their unit adopted a holistic approach which concentrated on personal, social and emotional aspects to complement the education. It also boosted children’s physical development including gross and fine motor skills.
“But embedded in play are the foundations of their future education including language, vocabulary and communications skills,” she added.
“We start phonics in the second week and have a 100 per cent pass rate by Year 1. They have come from very different backgrounds and homes and we help them all develop these skills. It opens so many doors from a young age.”
Anyone interested in early years education can contact the school at admin@ainderby.dalesmat.org or on (01609) 773519.
