Lane End Primary School, located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, with the dates of the inspection being 28 and 29 June 2023. The overall judgement of the school remains good, as there has been no change since the last inspection in March 2018. However, the evidence gathered during this inspection suggests that the school may not achieve the same high rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. Inspectors have recommended that the next inspection be a graded one.
The school is noted for providing a high level of care for its pupils, with staff demonstrating dedication and passion for the well-being of children. Parents have expressed appreciation for the staff’s involvement in activities such as the daily dance-a-day, which fosters a positive school environment. Pupils enjoy attending school and understand the values promoted by the institution, which helps them build positive relationships with both adults and peers. This supportive atmosphere contributes to the development of pupils’ confidence and independence, with leaders maintaining high ambitions for all students and promoting cooperation and teamwork.
Lane End Primary School offers a broad and ambitious curriculum, with particular strengths in the teaching of English and mathematics. However, school leaders recognize the need for further improvements to ensure that all subjects are taught effectively. Pupils feel safe within the school environment, and staff respond appropriately to incidents of bullying or unkindness. High expectations for behavior are upheld, and staff provide the necessary support for pupils to meet these standards, resulting in a readiness to learn. Additionally, pupils engage in various extracurricular activities that complement their academic learning, such as a visit from a famous basketball player that inspired them to embrace their uniqueness.
The school excels in providing exciting opportunities beyond academics, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the same enrichment experiences as their peers. The support for pupils’ well-being is evident, and the school’s communication team and play leaders encourage students to contribute positively to their community. Musical activities, such as an opera workshop, enhance pupils’ cultural development.
While the curriculum is ambitious, leaders have not been precise enough in outlining what pupils must learn in some subjects. This lack of clarity can lead to disjointed learning experiences, making it challenging for pupils to connect their knowledge effectively. Many subject leaders are new to their roles and have not yet developed the capacity to support their colleagues in improving teaching practices or monitoring pupil progress.
Early reading instruction is a strong point for the school, with pupils reading books that match their abilities. Staff are quick to identify gaps in phonics knowledge and provide additional support, helping pupils become fluent readers. However, in other subjects, assessment practices do not consistently inform teachers about pupils’ understanding, leading to gaps in knowledge retention.
Overall, Lane End Primary School has established a nurturing environment that fosters positive relationships and encourages independence. Leaders are focused on providing rich opportunities for all pupils while being mindful of staff well-being. The governing body is aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, and safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. The school is encouraged to refine its curriculum and assessment processes to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
