Lancaster Lane Community Primary School in Clayton-le-Woods, Leyland, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school fosters a positive and happy community where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, engage enthusiastically in their learning across various subjects. The school emphasizes high expectations, and students demonstrate commendable behavior and perseverance, especially when faced with challenges.
The school offers a rich array of musical and sporting opportunities, allowing pupils to learn brass instruments and guitar, and participate in activities such as cricket and glow-in-the-dark dodgeball competitions. After-school programs further enhance students' learning experiences, covering topics like multiplication, drawing, chess, and drama. Annual events, such as visits to the pantomime and residential trips that include activities like caving, contribute to a well-rounded education.
Social development is a key focus, with pupils taking pride in their membership in school teams. They learn self-control and respect for rules, contributing to a safe environment where they feel secure. The school effectively addresses instances of bullying and provides support for pupils needing help with their emotions or behavior.
The leadership team has worked diligently to create an ambitious curriculum that outlines the knowledge pupils should acquire from Reception through Year 6. Subject leaders provide essential guidance to staff, ensuring that learning activities are both engaging and challenging. Teachers carefully select content for lessons, utilizing subject experts to enhance teaching methods. Regular assessments help teachers gauge pupils' understanding and adjust instruction accordingly.
While pupils generally achieve well and exhibit minimal distractions during lessons, there are areas for improvement. Some students struggle to remember the meanings of important new vocabulary, which hampers their ability to articulate concepts effectively. The school is committed to enhancing reading skills, with daily book sharing and a diverse selection of reading materials available. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that reading materials align with pupils' knowledge. However, there is a need for improvement in teaching letter formation and writing posture, as these factors currently affect the quality of pupils' writing.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring their inclusion in all aspects of school life. The Reception class lays a strong foundation for children's learning, focusing on essential skills such as communication, counting, and physical activity.
Pupils are encouraged to treat others with respect and learn about different cultures and religions, fostering a sense of community and understanding. The school promotes physical activity and healthy living, with initiatives encouraging pupils to track their daily steps and make healthy dietary choices.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders providing support to help maintain a healthy work-life balance. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address safeguarding issues, particularly for vulnerable pupils. The school actively engages with parents regarding online safety and road safety, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about how to stay safe in various situations.
Overall, Lancaster Lane Community Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal development. The school is dedicated to addressing areas for improvement, particularly in vocabulary retention and writing skills, to further enhance the educational experience for all students.
