Leyland Methodist Junior School, located in Leyland, Lancashire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on November 10 and 12, 2021. The school places a strong emphasis on the well-being and development of its pupils, ensuring that they are at the center of all decision-making processes. Pupils express a sense of happiness, safety, and support within the school environment, with parents and carers affirming that their children are well cared for. The school promotes core values such as respect, compassion, and forgiveness, which are evident in the interactions among pupils and staff.
The quality of education at Leyland Methodist Junior School is commendable, with leaders implementing a high-quality curriculum that effectively builds on pupils' prior knowledge from their entry in Year 3. The curriculum is designed to equip pupils with the necessary knowledge and skills across various subjects, fostering confident learners. Teachers demonstrate enthusiasm for their subjects, making learning engaging and interesting for pupils. They provide clear explanations and help pupils make connections between different concepts, ensuring that important information is retained.
Pupils are eager learners who enjoy the diverse range of clubs and activities offered by the school, including theatre visits and residential trips. The school has established a positive behavior culture, with pupils generally conducting themselves well. When issues arise, staff are quick to address them, and while some pupils report occasional bullying, most parents believe that it is managed effectively.
Leaders prioritize reading, providing a well-stocked library and support for pupils who struggle with literacy. This focus has resulted in many pupils becoming fluent and confident readers. The school has also implemented new assessment strategies to monitor pupil progress, although there are instances where some teachers could enhance their use of these strategies to better identify misconceptions and support learning.
The leadership team is knowledgeable and dedicated, with governors actively holding leaders accountable for school improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive working environment. However, a minority of parents have expressed concerns regarding communication from school leaders, particularly about whom to approach with concerns about their children.
Safeguarding arrangements at Leyland Methodist Junior School are effective, with a strong culture of safety prioritized by leaders and staff. They ensure that safeguarding policies are in place and that all staff are aware of their responsibilities. Pupils are taught how to stay safe in various situations, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should focus on embedding assessment strategies to ensure all teachers effectively support pupil learning. Additionally, enhancing communication with parents will help keep them informed and engaged with school activities and their children's education. Overall, Leyland Methodist Junior School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal development.
