Moorlands Primary School, located in Tilehurst, Reading, Berkshire, has been recognized for its strong and supportive community, where both staff and pupils work collaboratively to foster a positive learning environment. The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that every pupil feels a sense of belonging. This is evident in the respectful interactions among pupils, who are encouraged to understand and appreciate diverse backgrounds and beliefs. The school’s commitment to celebrating various cultures is reflected in the display of national flags in outdoor spaces. From early years through to Year Six, pupils are taught to engage in constructive discussions and debates, demonstrating their respect for differing opinions.
The school has established a culture of kindness, where pupils support one another during play and learning activities. Teachers are dedicated to the well-being and safety of their students, instilling important routines and expectations that contribute to good behavior as pupils progress through the school. When minor behavioral issues arise, staff promptly address them, ensuring a harmonious environment. Overall, pupils enjoy their time at school and maintain good attendance.
Moorlands Primary School excels in its ambition to ensure that no child is left behind, particularly in reading, which is a central focus of the curriculum. From the onset of their education, children are introduced to effective reading strategies, supported by structured phonics teaching in Key Stage 1. This foundation is built upon as pupils advance through the school, ensuring that all students are proficient readers by the end of Year Six. The school provides a diverse selection of books that not only align with the curriculum but also inspire personal reading among pupils.
The curriculum is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to achieve commendable results across various subjects. Leaders and teachers carefully consider the content taught in each subject to ensure that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge. Professional development for teachers is prioritized, enabling them to deliver high-quality instruction across the curriculum. While some subjects show stronger progress than others, the overall expectations for pupil performance remain high.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, allowing them to thrive academically. The school identifies these pupils accurately and provides tailored assistance in lessons, particularly in subjects like mathematics and reading. This targeted support contributes to the high achievement of pupils with SEND, who also benefit from additional help outside of regular lessons when needed.
Beyond academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enrich pupils' development. These include educational trips, community service projects, and a range of after-school clubs that cater to diverse interests. Pupils express enthusiasm for participating in these activities, which foster a sense of responsibility and community engagement.
Governance at Moorlands Primary School is effective, with governors maintaining a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They ensure that additional funding is utilized to enhance pupil learning and support school leadership. The collaborative approach of school leaders fosters a positive working environment for staff, who feel supported in their roles.
The school’s safeguarding measures are robust, with well-organized processes in place to ensure pupil safety and well-being. Staff are trained to recognize signs of concern, and pupils feel secure in approaching adults for help. The school works closely with external agencies to support the mental health and well-being of its students.
While the school demonstrates overall effectiveness, there is a need for consistent support for pupils with SEND across all subjects to maximize their achievement. Continued professional development for teachers in all subject areas will further enhance the quality of education provided.
