Lynnfield Primary School, located in Hartlepool, has undergone a recent inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 1st and 2nd of March 2023, and it highlighted several strengths within the school, as well as areas for improvement. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement.
The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment that fosters a sense of belonging among pupils. Leaders and staff maintain high expectations for all students, promoting respect and understanding of diverse cultures within the school community. Pupils express pride in their school and feel safe, with reports of rare bullying incidents that are promptly addressed by school leaders. The behavior of pupils is described as calm and purposeful, both in classrooms and during break times, with clear school rules that are well understood by the students.
A key focus of the school is on early reading, with leaders ensuring that reading lessons are of high quality. Regular assessments are conducted to monitor pupil progress, and books are well-matched to students' phonics knowledge. This emphasis on reading has resulted in enthusiastic engagement from pupils, who enjoy sharing their reading experiences. The mathematics curriculum has also been revised to enhance pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge, although outcomes in national tests have yet to fully reflect these improvements.
The school is inclusive, providing effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. A knowledgeable leader oversees this area, ensuring that all pupils feel part of the school community. The nurturing ethos of the school is evident, with provisions in place to support the social and emotional needs of students. However, there are some concerns regarding the language development of children in the early years, indicating a need for a sharper focus in this area.
The curriculum extends beyond core subjects, with clear plans in place for subjects such as music and French. Subject leaders are actively involved in monitoring pupil progress and ensuring that knowledge is built over time. Despite this, some inconsistencies in teaching practices have been noted, which require prompt attention from leaders.
Pupils demonstrate good emotional regulation and have access to safe spaces for reflection and support. Their attitudes towards learning are positive, and incidents of poor behavior are managed effectively. However, attendance remains a challenge, with a significant number of pupils not attending regularly, which impacts their learning. Leaders are actively working to improve attendance rates, but progress has been slower than desired.
Personal development is a vital aspect of school life, with a curriculum that addresses local issues and prepares pupils for life in modern Britain. Pupils are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities and represent the school in various events. The governing body is supportive and holds leaders accountable, while also being mindful of staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Lynnfield Primary School are effective, with robust procedures in place to protect pupils. The designated safeguarding lead and staff are well-informed about the pupils and their families, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly. Overall, while the school has made commendable progress, there are areas that require ongoing attention to ensure that all pupils receive the best possible education and support.
