Lark Hill Primary School, located in Edgeley, Stockport, has undergone a recent inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 22 and 23, 2022, and marked a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Leaders and staff are dedicated to the achievement of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes a vision of community responsibility, respect, creativity, and challenge, which contributes to the positive experiences of its pupils.
The sense of community within the school is strong, with pupils demonstrating an understanding of fairness and equality. They thrive in leadership roles, such as librarians and members of the children's council. The school effectively addresses bullying, ensuring that incidents are dealt with promptly and effectively. Classrooms are calm, allowing pupils to focus on their learning, and teachers maintain high expectations for behavior. Pupils are taught to take responsibility for their actions, fostering a culture of accountability.
Outdoor play is encouraged, promoting physical activity and health among pupils. The school offers a variety of after-school activities, including tennis, hockey, and gymnastics, as well as engaging trips that enhance learning experiences. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, catering for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. Leaders have clearly identified the knowledge that pupils need to acquire in most subjects, and teachers are well-trained to deliver this curriculum effectively.
However, there are areas for improvement. In a few subjects, the precise subject-specific knowledge that pupils need to learn has not been clearly defined, which can hinder the depth of their prior knowledge. Despite this, most pupils, including those with special educational needs, learn well and are prepared for the next stages of their education. Teachers utilize various assessment methods to ensure that pupils are grasping the curriculum content, addressing misconceptions swiftly when they arise.
The phonics curriculum is well-sequenced, enabling most pupils to become fluent readers. Early years teachers skillfully build pupils' phonics knowledge, ensuring that reading materials are appropriately matched to their abilities. Staff are quick to identify pupils who may be struggling with reading and provide the necessary support to help them catch up. Older pupils express enthusiasm for reading and discuss the books and authors they have encountered.
Children in the early years adapt quickly to school life, understanding classroom routines and developing confidence through outdoor exploration. They are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1, having developed their language and number skills effectively. Pupils learn about their rights and responsibilities, fostering respectful relationships and understanding cultural and religious differences through various activities, including visits to places of worship.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders work closely with various agencies to provide timely support for vulnerable pupils and their families. Overall, Lark Hill Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils, with clear areas identified for further improvement to enhance the learning experience.
