Risley Lower Grammar CE VC Primary School, located in Derbyshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 21st and 22nd of March 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good.
Pupils at Risley Lower Grammar enjoy attending the school, where they feel known, happy, and safe. They appreciate the welcoming environment and adhere to the main rule of being safe, kind, and polite. The school promotes positive behavior, and instances of bullying are rare, with staff addressing any issues promptly. The school emphasizes the importance of purpose, resilience, and success, particularly in reading, which is a key focus of the curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to engage with literature, sharing recommendations and enjoying storytime.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with clear learning objectives set for each subject. Leaders have carefully considered the mixed-age classes and have established defined endpoints for each year group. While the curriculum is strong, there are areas for refinement to ensure that pupils have adequate opportunities to apply their learning in high-quality work. Subject leaders receive effective support from senior leaders, which enhances their ability to provide guidance and training to teachers. This collaboration has positively impacted pupils' learning experiences.
Teachers demonstrate a strong understanding of their subjects and their pupils, providing clear explanations and adapting their teaching to meet individual needs. Assessment practices are meaningful, helping to identify and address gaps in learning. However, there are occasions when misconceptions are not adequately addressed, which can hinder pupils' progress. The school recognizes the importance of feedback in improving work quality and is committed to enhancing this aspect of teaching.
Reading is prioritized from the early years, with a structured phonics program in place. Staff are well-equipped to teach phonics and early reading effectively, ensuring that pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials. The school fosters a love of reading through various initiatives, including library sessions and reading buddies.
The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is robust, with leaders actively working to identify and meet individual needs. Staff provide tailored support, enabling these pupils to achieve ambitious targets. The early years provision is also strong, with children benefiting from a nurturing environment that promotes social interaction and communication skills.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere. Pupils are motivated to succeed and generally attend school regularly. Staff provide support for those who may struggle with behavior, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive.
Personal development is a notable strength, with pupils gaining a deep understanding of their role in society and learning to respect diverse beliefs and backgrounds. The school emphasizes mental and physical well-being, equipping pupils with the knowledge to stay healthy.
Staff express pride in their work environment, appreciating the support and approachability of school leaders. The governing body is committed to continuous improvement, working collaboratively with leaders and staff to enhance the school experience.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Leaders are knowledgeable about potential risks and act swiftly on any concerns. Staff receive comprehensive training, ensuring they understand their safeguarding responsibilities, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe.
To further improve, the school must ensure that all staff consistently address misconceptions and provide feedback to enhance the quality of pupils' work. This will help maintain high standards and support continuous improvement in the educational experience offered at Risley Lower Grammar CE VC Primary School.
