Lindens Primary School, located in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, was inspected on March 2 and 3, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behavior and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and early years provision were also rated as good, while leadership and management were deemed good as well. The school had previously been rated outstanding during its last inspection 13 years ago, reflecting a long gap due to legal exemptions from routine inspections until November 2020.
Pupils at Lindens Primary School express pride in their learning environment and demonstrate exceptional behavior. The school fosters a culture of respect and kindness, with leaders committed to supporting all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils exhibit growing independence and maturity, and there is a strong sense of community among them. Parents and carers echo this sentiment, noting that their children thrive in the nurturing environment provided by the school.
The school is characterized by its creative and engaging learning journey, with vibrant displays throughout the corridors that stimulate curiosity and interest. While pupils show strong knowledge in subjects like mathematics, history, and geography, there are areas for improvement in design and technology, as well as art and design. This is attributed to the lack of clearly defined learning objectives in these subjects compared to others.
Leaders and governors are actively engaging with the Lighthouse Federation to enhance their practices and support staff development. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to meeting the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring they achieve well alongside their peers. The early years provision mirrors the positive traits seen in older students, promoting kindness and respect among young learners.
Reading instruction is a priority, with effective phonics teaching helping pupils develop strong reading skills. The school encourages a love for words and thoughtful communication, fostering an understanding of the impact language can have on others. Pupils are taught to consider the kindness and appropriateness of their words, which contributes to a positive school culture.
Extra-curricular activities have resumed following the COVID-19 pandemic, providing pupils with diverse opportunities to engage in sports and other interests. Parents appreciate the range of experiences offered, which extend beyond the curriculum and contribute to the holistic development of their children.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained to protect pupils. The school maintains rigorous monitoring of behavior and incidents, providing support to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all students.
To improve further, the school needs to clarify the specific content expected in some subjects, including areas of learning in the early years. This will help address gaps in knowledge and ensure that pupils build on their learning effectively over time. Overall, Lindens Primary School is a supportive and engaging environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and socially.
