Primrose Lane Primary School, located in Boston Spa, West Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on December 5 and 6, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management also receiving a similar rating. However, the behavior and attitudes of the pupils were deemed good, and early years provision was rated as good as well.
Pupils at Primrose Lane demonstrate respect towards their peers, teachers, and visitors, embodying the school’s ethos of being ready, respectful, and safe. The school provides support for pupils who need additional help with their behavior. While there has been progress in reading, writing, and mathematics, learning in the wider curriculum remains less secure. The impact of the pandemic has been noted as a factor that has slowed the pace of improvement.
The school promotes a strong understanding of equality and diversity among pupils, who confidently discuss concepts of justice and equality. Character development, independence, and resilience are emphasized, with younger children showing perseverance in their learning. Year six pupils exhibit self-confidence and determination during challenging outdoor activities on residential trips. Online safety education is also a focus, equipping pupils with the knowledge to stay safe online and respond to cyberbullying.
Following the previous inspection, the school prioritized the teaching of mathematics, writing, and reading, resulting in a strong curriculum in mathematics and a well-structured reading curriculum. Staff training in core subjects has been effective, enhancing teachers' skills and knowledge. However, weaknesses persist in the wider curriculum, where learning is not consistently organized to help pupils retain important knowledge over time. The tasks set in the wider curriculum do not always allow pupils to demonstrate and deepen their understanding, and staff training in these areas has been less effective.
The school has implemented a two-year curriculum cycle, but it has not always been adapted to meet the needs of different year groups. Phonics teaching is a priority, with pupils’ reading materials aligned with their phonics knowledge. Regular checks ensure that pupils are supported in keeping up with their peers.
The mathematics curriculum is recognized as a strength, featuring a logical sequence of learning that begins in early years. High expectations for mathematical achievement are set, and pupils are well-supported in tackling increasingly ambitious problem-solving challenges. The early years curriculum is responsive to children’s interests, fostering stimulating activities that promote learning and development. Positive routines help young children settle into a safe and secure environment, while adult interactions enhance their communication skills.
The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities has improved, with early identification and support being prioritized. The school ensures that these pupils understand their progression through the curriculum and that staff are equipped to support them effectively.
Personal, social, and health education opportunities are provided, with some aspects well-embedded, such as knowledge of physical and mental health. However, the curriculum lacks depth in developing understanding of British values and world faiths.
Governors are aware of their responsibilities and recognize improvements in early reading, early years, and support for pupils with special educational needs. They have established effective accountability measures for school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve, the school needs to further develop the wider curriculum to ensure consistent sequencing of learning and to meet the diverse needs of pupils across year groups. Additionally, enhancing staff training in the wider curriculum and deepening pupils’ understanding of British values and different faiths are essential for ongoing improvement.
