Easington Lane Primary School, located in Houghton le Spring, Tyne and Wear, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 31 and November 1, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending. They appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their educators, which facilitate effective learning and knowledge acquisition. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all pupils achieve commendably.
The religious education curriculum is particularly well-structured, allowing pupils to explore diverse viewpoints and fostering respect among them. The school promotes a culture of respect through its ‘RESPECT’ values, with pupils actively participating in initiatives that encourage positive behavior. Staff members are attentive to pupils' concerns, contributing to a safe and secure atmosphere. The implementation of a positive behavior policy has been largely successful, enhancing focus during lessons and promoting good conduct during breaks.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various roles, such as ‘Mini Police’ and school councillors, which helps develop their leadership skills. The school organizes enriching activities, including annual residential trips and visits to significant locations, which bolster pupils' confidence and personal growth. The curriculum is designed to cater to the needs of all pupils, ensuring a coherent progression of knowledge from nursery through to Year 6.
The ambitious religious education curriculum allows for in-depth study of various religions, promoting empathy and understanding of different worldviews. For instance, Year 5 pupils engage in discussions about forgiveness, linking historical events to contemporary issues. The school effectively utilizes assessment to identify knowledge gaps, particularly in mathematics, where a redesigned curriculum ensures a solid grasp of essential number facts. Daily revisiting of prior learning aids in fluency and prepares pupils for new concepts.
Reading is prioritized, with daily phonics lessons starting in Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, leading to strong pupil performance in this area. However, some early-stage readers are assigned books that do not align with their phonics knowledge, hindering their reading practice. The school recognizes the need to ensure that all pupils read books that match their current learning level.
Pupils with special educational needs receive effective support, with external agencies collaborating with staff to assess and address their needs. The school fosters a culture of high behavioral expectations, with staff guiding pupils in adhering to the positive behavior policy. This structured approach helps pupils focus on their learning and enjoy social interactions during breaks.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that contribute to pupils' broader development, including educational visits that instill pride in their local community. The school’s commitment to spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is evident, with community events providing essential support for families.
Staff members express pride in their work environment, appreciating the support they receive for their professional growth and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to enhance its reading program by ensuring that all pupils practice with appropriately matched texts and to provide more opportunities for problem-solving in mathematics to strengthen pupils' independent skills. Overall, Easington Lane Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
