Lawnswood School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The students are described as polite, friendly, and respectful, contributing positively to the school culture. The school emphasizes understanding each pupil as an individual, which enhances their overall experience and engagement in learning.
The curriculum at Lawnswood School is designed to reflect the diverse backgrounds of its pupils, promoting high expectations for achievement. This approach not only engages students but also motivates them to succeed. The school has established strong links with universities and employers, further raising pupils' aspirations. In the classroom, students demonstrate positive attitudes towards their work, and the school maintains a calm and orderly atmosphere where positive relationships flourish among pupils and staff.
Lawnswood School offers a broad and balanced curriculum, allowing pupils to study a wide range of subjects at key stage three and select from both academic and vocational courses at key stage four. The school is actively working to increase the number of pupils studying for the English Baccalaureate by prioritizing modern foreign languages. The sixth-form curriculum is tailored to meet the needs and interests of students, facilitating their progression to higher education, apprenticeships, and employment.
The school prioritizes reading and provides additional support for those who need it, helping pupils become confident and fluent readers. Various activities and events, such as author visits and reading competitions, are organized to promote a love for reading across the curriculum. The school effectively identifies the needs of its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they can complete the same work as their peers.
Teachers at Lawnswood School possess good subject knowledge and effectively present new information to pupils. They revisit prior learning at the beginning of lessons, aiding retention and understanding. Feedback is provided to pupils on how to improve their work, and students are encouraged to respond to this feedback. However, there are instances where questioning and activity choices do not effectively extend pupils' knowledge and understanding, indicating an area for improvement.
The personal development program at the school is comprehensive and age-appropriate, covering topics such as relationships, equality, diversity, and mental health. Pupils receive guidance on keeping themselves safe, including online safety, and benefit from partnerships with external agencies that enhance the program's quality. From Year 7 to Year 13, students receive careers information and guidance, helping them make informed decisions about their future.
Leadership at Lawnswood School demonstrates commitment to improving the quality of education for all pupils. The school has developed in-house provisions to support the social, emotional, and mental health needs of its students. Staff feel valued and supported, with manageable workloads and a focus on well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Lawnswood School continues to provide a good education, with strengths in its inclusive culture, broad curriculum, and commitment to personal development. However, there is a need for ongoing professional development for teachers to enhance questioning techniques and activity selection to further secure and extend pupils' knowledge and understanding.
