Luton Primary School, located in Chatham, Kent, was inspected on 20 and 21 June 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, achieve well and succeed. The ethos of the school is reflected in its mission to serve as a bridge to learning, perseverance, and success. Leaders and staff collaborate effectively to instill positive learning habits from the early years, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to access the curriculum alongside their peers.
The school environment is characterized by positive relationships among pupils and staff. Pupils enjoy their friendships and feel respected and valued by the caring staff. They trust the staff to address any issues that arise, contributing to a calm and respectful atmosphere. Pupils are encouraged to develop as responsible individuals, engaging in discussions about important social issues and taking pride in their roles as ambassadors for their rights-respecting school. They actively participate in initiatives to improve their environment and support local causes.
The curriculum at Luton Primary School is well thought out, with most subjects planned in a logical sequence that builds understanding over time. Subject leaders identify key knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn, ensuring that learning is cumulative. However, a few foundation subjects lack the same level of detailed planning, which can affect pupils' achievement in those areas. Staff utilize their expertise to create engaging lessons and regularly check for understanding, leading to positive feedback from pupils about their teachers and the learning experience.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with a new phonics program in place that has been well received. Staff are skilled in teaching pupils to read and spell from the early years, ensuring that they engage with appropriately leveled books. While there have been improvements in reading fluency, some pupils still face challenges, and staff are quick to provide additional support when needed. Historically, not enough pupils were fluent readers by the end of key stage one, but recent changes have led to better outcomes.
Behaviour at the school is generally good, with high expectations set by staff. In early years, children demonstrate positive attitudes and social skills, while older pupils are engaged and eager to learn. Some pupils, particularly those with SEND, may struggle with behaviour, but pastoral staff provide appropriate support to help them improve. Attendance has been a concern since the pandemic, with some pupils missing school regularly, which negatively impacts their learning and achievement.
Personal development is a strength of the school, with a range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities available to pupils. They participate in clubs, trips, and initiatives that foster their talents and sense of community. Staff are supportive of each other, and there is a strong emphasis on well-being and professional development. Parents generally express satisfaction with the school's support and responsiveness to issues.
The safeguarding arrangements at Luton Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety. Staff receive regular training and are confident in identifying and reporting concerns. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and families. Leaders ensure that appropriate checks are conducted on staff and volunteers, and pupils are educated about safety, including online risks.
To improve, the school needs to address attendance issues, as a significant minority of pupils do not attend regularly enough, impacting their learning. Additionally, leaders should ensure that all subjects are planned and delivered with the same precision as the strongest subjects to enhance overall pupil achievement.
