Priory Lane Community School in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, has recently undergone an inspection on October 3 and 4, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The school demonstrates high expectations for pupil learning, and students consistently meet these expectations. The school actively engages with various professionals from different fields, providing pupils with inspirational opportunities that connect their learning to real-life experiences. Notable visits have included health workers, priests, and an illustrator, which have positively impacted pupils' enjoyment of reading and writing.
Pupils feel safe and happy at school, with a clear understanding of whom to approach if they have concerns. The school effectively teaches safety, including road safety and online safety, ensuring pupils are well-informed about how to protect themselves. Behaviour in lessons and during break times is commendable, with pupils acknowledging the fairness of the school's behaviour policy. While instances of bullying are acknowledged, pupils report that staff address these issues promptly.
The school has ambitious plans for pupil learning and experiences, with a structured approach to teaching reading and phonics. Teachers provide appropriate reading materials that match pupils' abilities, and additional support is available for those who struggle with reading. The curriculum has been thoughtfully revised to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly outlined, allowing pupils to build their understanding over time. Assessments are effective in core subjects, although there is a need for better alignment in the wider curriculum to accurately identify learning gaps.
Pupils learn about various faiths and British values, which enhances their understanding of democracy and cultural diversity. They participate in leadership roles, such as playground leaders and wellbeing ambassadors, which help them develop responsibility and emotional regulation. However, some pupils have expressed a desire for more extracurricular activities, particularly in music, to explore their talents further.
The school has a robust process for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive alongside their peers. In the early years, the curriculum is well-structured, with personalized activities that cater to children's learning needs, leading to strong progress and readiness for Year 1.
Staff development is prioritized, with leaders providing training that enhances subject knowledge across the curriculum. This investment in staff has a positive impact on pupil learning. Governors actively engage with the school community to ensure accurate information is gathered for ongoing improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school needs to enhance its assessment processes in the wider curriculum to better track pupil learning and address any misconceptions. Additionally, expanding extracurricular opportunities will support pupils' broader development and interests. Overall, Priory Lane Community School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for its pupils.
