Leys Farm Junior School in Bottesford, Scunthorpe, received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on April 19 and 20, 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in November 2017. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment where pupils feel valued and listened to. Relationships between staff and students are positive, fostering a sense of belonging akin to a family. The leadership team, under the new headteacher, has raised expectations for pupil achievement, contributing to a culture where students strive to do their best.
Pupils express a strong sense of safety at the school, with a clear understanding of bullying and confidence that it is not a concern at Leys Farm. They have opportunities to share their thoughts and feelings during designated times, which helps them focus on learning. The school promotes various roles and responsibilities for pupils, such as school councillors and playground buddies, enhancing their sense of pride and community involvement. Engagement in after-school clubs and educational visits further enriches their experience, with recent participation in STEM events at local schools.
The school has prioritized reading, implementing a phonics program for Year 3 pupils and providing support for those in other year groups who may be falling behind. This initiative has proven effective, allowing pupils to catch up quickly. Teachers select a diverse range of texts to engage students, and daily reading opportunities are integrated into the curriculum. The curriculum has been made more ambitious, with subject leaders improving offerings across many areas. However, there are still subjects, such as art and design, where the curriculum development is in its early stages, and essential knowledge is not consistently defined.
Most pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) access the same curriculum as their peers, although there are areas, particularly in mathematics, where support could be enhanced. This lack of clarity can lead to disengagement among some pupils with SEND. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with additional needs, are well-supported in their learning.
Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of British values, showing tolerance and respect for diversity. They engage in discussions about different family structures and exhibit maturity in their perspectives. The governing body plays an active role in school life, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to support and challenge the school effectively. Staff report feeling well-supported, with a focus on their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Leys Farm are effective, with leaders knowing their pupils and families well. Staff training is regular and relevant, enabling staff to recognize when pupils may need additional support. The curriculum includes safety education, including internet safety, and external visitors contribute to broadening pupils' understanding of safety.
To improve, the school needs to clearly identify essential knowledge in all subjects, particularly in art and design, to ensure pupils build on their prior knowledge effectively. Additionally, the needs of pupils with SEND should be more carefully considered in all subjects to enhance their learning experience. Overall, Leys Farm Junior School provides a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement in educational outcomes.
