Saint Lawrence Church of England Primary School in Alton, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 15 and 16, 2022. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where the values of love, compassion, and respect are integral to daily life. Leaders prioritize the well-being of all pupils, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and supported. Pupils express high levels of happiness and trust in the adults at the school, highlighting the supportive environment fostered by teachers who are always available to assist with learning and emotional needs.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with kindness and cooperation evident in their interactions. The school provides a variety of play equipment that encourages positive social interactions during playtime. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, pupils are confident that staff will address the issues promptly. The school also emphasizes the importance of community involvement, with pupils participating in initiatives such as food collection for local food banks and fundraising for schools in Africa. Additionally, they engage with elderly community members through reading programs at the local library.
The curriculum at Saint Lawrence is broad and ambitious, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While many pupils achieve well, there are areas where achievement could be improved. Leaders have identified the need to refine the curriculum further to ensure that key knowledge and skills are clearly defined across all subjects. This refinement will help teachers focus on essential content and deepen pupils' understanding, particularly in subjects where achievement has not been as strong.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a structured phonics program in place from the start of Reception. This approach has proven effective, as pupils quickly become fluent readers. Teachers also engage pupils with high-quality literature, fostering a love for reading through daily story times. The school is proactive in meeting the needs of pupils with special educational needs, with parents expressing appreciation for the support provided.
Pupils are taught to exhibit high standards of behavior and consideration for others, which is evident in their polite and respectful interactions. The school offers a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs and trips that enhance the curriculum and promote personal development. Recent activities have included dance workshops and visits to various cultural and religious sites, enriching pupils' educational experiences.
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school implemented a well-being program to support mental health, demonstrating a commitment to the holistic development of its pupils. The leadership team works collaboratively with governors to ensure continuous improvement, and staff feel supported in managing their workload effectively. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the nurturing environment and strong community feel.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are robust, with clear systems in place to protect pupils at risk. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of abuse and understand the procedures for reporting concerns. Leaders actively address local safeguarding issues and educate pupils on how to stay safe, including online safety.
Overall, while Saint Lawrence Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, there is a clear commitment to ongoing improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to enhance pupil achievement across all subjects. The school’s dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for all pupils is evident in its practices and community engagement.
