Leadenham CofE Primary School celebrates 'Good' Ofsted rating

A primary school is celebrating remaining a 'Good' school following an Ofsted inspection.

The Leadenham CofE Primary School has once again been rated ‘Good’ since it was first judged to be so in July 2012 by the education watchdog.

When Ofsted have judged a school to be good they will then re-evaluate the school roughly once every four years to confirm that the school remains good. These inspections are carried out under section 8 of the Education Act 2005.

During their visit to the primary school — which welcomes pupils aged 2 to 11 years in its nursery and primary provision — inspectors remarked that: “Pupils are happy and feel safe at this small village school.

"They like the fact that they know everyone. (They) get on well together and look after each other.

“Staff model the respect and kindness they expect pupils to show. Staff have high expectations of pupils’ behaviour and their attitudes to learning. Pupils behave well and work hard.”

As part of parental feedback, one parent echoed others' views, saying: “This is a fantastic little school which has the children’s well-being at its heart and supports them to achieve their true potential.”

Reporting their findings, inspectors also praised the early years provision at the school, noting that: “Children in the Nursery and Reception years experience a curriculum that is carefully thought out. Well-established routines support children’s personal, social and emotional development. Relationships between children and staff are positive. Children are well prepared for key stage 1.”

Matthew Nicholson, Headteacher, said: “I am incredibly proud that Leadenham CofE Primary School has once again be recognised as a ‘Good’ school.

“There is such a sense of community here at Leadenham and I am delighted that Ofsted have highlighted the family atmosphere and caring ethos that are so important to us. It is also wonderful to hear the positive feedback from our pupils and their parents, to know that our children are happy and flourishing as a result of their learning with us is why we work so hard to provide our best for them every day.”

Other highlights include encouraging pupils' love of reading with a well-stocked library and a logical maths curriculum with knowledgeable teachers.

The report was also complimentary of the effective special educational needs and or disabilities systems, as well as enhancing the curriculum with activities such as; outdoor learning, musical lessons and getting pupils involved with community projects.

Staff also encourage pupils to develop a sense of ‘awe and wonder’ through the many trips and visits they enjoy. As one pupil explained, "The school has lots of opportunities and there is always something fun to do around the corner."

In the coming academic year the school is set to join Infinity Academies Trust, a collective of like-minded Lincolnshire based primary schools.