Lea Community Primary School, located in Preston, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in March 2020. The school fosters an environment where pupils arrive with enthusiasm and a strong desire to learn. Students express that their teachers are dedicated to their success, emphasizing values such as resilience, honesty, and respect, which contribute to their personal development. The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the same opportunities as their peers.
The school offers a variety of creative activities, particularly highlighted during events like 'Magnificent Mondays,' which include art, dance, and music. Pupils take pride in their achievements, including a recent dance performance at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and various sporting accomplishments. The school promotes a friendly atmosphere where making friends is easy, and pupils feel safe and supported during their time at school. Lunchtimes are well-supervised, allowing students to engage in games or reading, further enhancing their social interactions.
Behavior among pupils is generally positive, with support systems in place for those who may struggle with self-management. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed promptly by staff. The school has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, with most pupils reaching expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of Year 2. Leaders have identified and addressed previous dips in attainment, particularly in Year 6, implementing effective strategies that have positively impacted current pupils' achievements.
The curriculum at Lea Community Primary School is designed to foster independence and resilience among students. Leaders have high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The curriculum is structured to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge in a logical sequence. Teachers utilize assessment information effectively to tailor their planning to meet individual pupil needs, allowing for opportunities to revisit prior learning before progressing to new concepts. However, there are areas within the curriculum where key concepts from the national curriculum are not fully reflected, leading to some challenges in pupil understanding.
Pupils exhibit commendable conduct throughout the school, with older students serving as positive role models. Disruptions in lessons are infrequent, and the quality of work produced by pupils reflects their dedication. The school showcases high-quality art and dance performances, with pupils confidently discussing their learning experiences. In the Reception class, children engage in practical activities to develop their understanding of early numeracy, with staff effectively addressing gaps in communication skills.
The school prioritizes reading, with teachers sharing their passion for literature and creating inviting reading spaces. Pupils are encouraged to explore a variety of texts across subjects, enhancing their literacy skills. The school also emphasizes personal development through diverse experiences, such as residential trips and community involvement, preparing pupils to be responsible citizens.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively ensuring the quality of education while being mindful of staff workload. Staff report feeling supported and valued by school leaders. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Lea Community Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience, with clear areas identified for further improvement in curriculum planning to enhance pupil understanding across all subjects.
