Inspectors have judged a Stockton-on-Tees school to be “good” in all areas and described it as “highly ambitious”.

Ofsted visited Crooksbarn Primary School in Norton on 11/12 February as part of its national programme of school inspection.

The Ofsted report says: “The school is highly ambitious for every pupil to be successful and achieve well, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils enjoy school and attend regularly.

“Pupils are happy, safe and valued in the school’s warm and caring atmosphere. Pupils are polite and respectful and show kindness to staff and each other.

“Staff create a nurturing and inclusive environment by supporting pupils’ mental health and well-being. Pupils feel welcome and included.

“Pupils follow clear behaviour routines based on being ready, respectful and safe. Pupils behave sensibly in lessons, following routines and engaging positively in their learning.”

The curriculum also comes in for praise in the report which has been sent to all parents/carers.

It says: “The curriculum is carefully designed to build pupils’ knowledge over time. Pupils learn and remember the curriculum well. Vocabulary is a key focus in lessons. Teachers present new information clearly. They routinely check how well pupils understand the learning. When pupils have gaps in their understanding, extra support is provided.

“Phonics is taught consistently by well-trained staff. Pupils quickly become fluent, confident readers. Pupils enjoy reading challenges and rewards, such as reading scrapbooks and the ‘star reader’ bag. Pupils’ written work shows a thorough understanding of the knowledge they are learning.

“The early years curriculum focuses on the development of communication and language. From the start, children enjoy rhymes and songs, as well as learning to love books and stories.”

The report continues: “The behaviour policy has been reviewed to ensure a consistent approach throughout the school day. Pupils follow the school’s clear rules and expectations. Staff regularly praise expected behaviour.

“Assemblies, clubs and educational visits enrich their learning, and they understand how to stay safe online. They take part in debates and discussions, preparing them successfully for life in modern Britain.”

The report concludes: “The school has improved significantly since the last inspection. Support from the trust has helped leaders and staff grow their knowledge and confidence through coaching and mentoring. Managing staff workload and well-being has been a key priority. Staff feel well supported by leaders. Governors check the school’s progress and focus on key priorities.”

Headteacher Chris Twiby said: “All of the staff are extremely pleased with such a positive report: it reflects the hard work and dedication of our Crooksbarn family. I would like to thank the whole Crooksbarn school community for the part they have played.

“The report showcases many achievements we’re proud of, but we remain committed to our school’s continuous improvement and to further enriching the educational opportunities for our pupils.”

Crooksbarn is home to 299 pupils between the age of three and 11 and is one of ten schools under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “This is a very positive report. To be described by Ofsted as “highly ambitious” and judged to be “good” in all areas is a significant accolade and I would like to thank everyone associated with Crooksbarn for their hard work.”

There are child places available at Crooksbarn in all year groups. For further information, contact the school on 01642 531750.

Ofsted’s inspection team were led by Nicola Beaumont.

The other primary schools within Ad Astra are Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in Durham.

Click on the link below to read the Ofsted report in full.

Crooksbarn Primary School – Ofsted Report 2025

Crooksbarn Primary School pupils and staff celebrate their “good” Ofsted report.