Stokes Wood Primary School in Leicester has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 27 and 28, 2023. The school is characterized by a caring and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and eager to attend. Students express enjoyment in their lessons, highlighting the school's motto, What we do today, matters tomorrow, which emphasizes the development of character and positive attitudes. The school promotes the six Rs: resilience, readiness, responsibility, reflectiveness, risk-taking, and resourcefulness, which are integral to the pupils' learning experience.
Teachers at Stokes Wood Primary maintain high expectations for behavior, resulting in calm and purposeful classrooms. Pupils report that bullying is infrequent and that any incidents are effectively managed by staff. The school fosters respect for diversity, with students feeling that everyone is treated equally. This inclusive atmosphere is further reflected in the positive sentiments expressed by pupils, with one stating, There are no outsiders here.
The school offers a wide range of activities that engage all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils look forward to various experiences, such as camping trips and opportunities to take on responsibilities like being part of the school council. The school also has strong community ties, including collaborations with local universities and charitable initiatives.
Leaders at Stokes Wood Primary have developed an ambitious curriculum that prioritizes vocabulary across all subjects. They have carefully structured the learning sequence from early years to Year 6. However, there are areas where the specific knowledge that pupils need to learn has not been fully defined, which can hinder assessment of their understanding. While senior leaders provide training for subject leaders, some do not monitor the implementation of the curriculum closely enough, which can limit improvements in their areas of responsibility.
Teachers utilize their strong subject knowledge to create engaging lessons, revisiting prior content to reinforce learning. Pupils demonstrate a good grasp of technical vocabulary in subjects like science, showcasing their ability to articulate concepts accurately. The emphasis on reading is a priority, with staff trained in phonics to ensure that all pupils learn to read effectively from the start. Support is provided for those who struggle, including rapid assistance for pupils with limited spoken English.
The school places importance on understanding the needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing excellent support both in mainstream classes and the specialist unit. Parents of these pupils report positively on their children's progress and the care they receive.
In the early years, children are well-prepared for Year 1, with clear routines established to support their learning. The curriculum also addresses broader societal issues, teaching pupils about equality, diversity, and healthy relationships. Pupils engage with British values and demonstrate strong relationships with staff.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm and respond appropriately. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach if they have concerns.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that the precise knowledge required in foundation subjects is clearly identified, allowing teachers to assess pupil learning more effectively. Additionally, monitoring of curriculum implementation should be strengthened to ensure consistent quality in pupils' learning experiences. Overall, Stokes Wood Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
