Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Well Lane Primary School on April 30 and May 1, 2024, following its previous judgment that the school required special measures in June 2023. The purpose of this inspection was to assess the progress made by the school since that time, rather than to evaluate its overall effectiveness. The inspection involved discussions with the interim executive headteacher, senior leaders, staff, governors, and representatives from the local authority, as well as classroom observations and reviews of school documentation.
The findings indicate that while progress has been made, further work is necessary for the school to be removed from special measures. Significant changes have occurred in leadership and staffing since the last inspection, with the local authority commissioning a multi-academy trust to provide interim leadership. The school has reorganized its staffing structure, enhancing senior leadership and curriculum management, and is in the process of transitioning to become part of the trust.
The school has taken decisive steps to improve collaboration among staff and the educational experience for pupils. It is addressing its previous shortcomings with a commitment to honesty and fairness, fostering a culture where staff are beginning to regain confidence. Positive changes have been noted in the curriculum's design, delivery, and impact, as well as in pupil behavior. The school is establishing a solid foundation for further improvements.
The leadership has effectively combined insights from the previous inspection with its own analysis to identify key areas for development. Staff are now better informed about the school's priorities and their roles in enhancing educational quality. The curriculum has been carefully revised, ensuring that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence. New resources are aiding in making learning more memorable, and there is a stronger focus on identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs.
Training programs for staff, particularly those leading subjects, are ongoing and extensive, contributing to improved subject knowledge among pupils. The implementation of a new phonics program has resulted in more effective reading instruction, with targeted support for struggling readers. The reading curriculum has also been revamped, enriching pupils' exposure to diverse texts, although gaps in knowledge from previous weaknesses remain.
Pupil behavior has shown marked improvement, with teachers now addressing behavioral issues more effectively and consistently. This has allowed pupils to concentrate better on their learning. The school has introduced strategies to promote good attendance, closely monitoring individual and group attendance to inform its actions. As a result, unauthorized absences are declining.
While pupils are developing a reasonable understanding of online safety, their knowledge of family diversity and health remains limited due to past weaknesses in the personal development program. The revised curriculum now includes early years education, focusing on essential knowledge and vocabulary.
The governing body has played a supportive role in managing the school's operations since the last inspection, recognizing the positive changes made through its partnership with the trust. However, there is a need for governors to challenge the school's work more effectively to support ongoing development.
The school has successfully utilized support from the local authority and the trust, with teachers participating in subject-specific networks that enhance their understanding of curriculum content. This collaboration is fostering improved leadership skills and subject expertise within the school. Overall, while the school has made commendable progress, continued efforts are essential for it to fully address the areas identified for improvement and to ensure sustained success in the future.
