Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Sandfield Close Primary School on June 4, 2019, following its previous judgment of good in December 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team has effectively upheld the standards of teaching and learning, fostering a vibrant learning environment where pupils consistently make strong progress in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. Staff collaboration is evident, with leaders providing support and respect, which has led to improvements in the quality of education since the last inspection. High expectations are set for pupils, who respond positively by engaging in their learning and following instructions promptly.
Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of the school's values, respecting diverse backgrounds and cultures. They are taught to treat others as they wish to be treated, fostering a sense of pride in their school community. British values are integrated into the curriculum, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. The school has effectively addressed previous areas for improvement, particularly in reading, which is now prioritized and taught effectively, enabling pupils to catch up quickly.
In the early years, staff recognize that children's speaking and writing skills are below typical levels. They employ strategies to model good language and introduce new vocabulary, which children incorporate into their writing. Feedback systems are in place to help pupils understand their strengths and areas for improvement, with tools like WAGOLL boards aiding their learning. The school takes pride in its science curriculum, holding Gold Level Quality Marks and receiving recognition for its innovative teaching methods.
The leadership has improved the assessment and recording systems, allowing for effective evaluation of pupil performance across subjects. The governing body plays a strategic role, ensuring accountability and access to data for informed decision-making. While core subjects are prioritized, there is a plan to review the curriculum in other subjects to ensure consistent delivery and achievement.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a culture of vigilance established within the school. Staff are well-trained and aware of various forms of abuse, ensuring that pupils are kept safe. Parents express confidence in the school's ability to protect their children, and pupils feel secure and supported.
Children enter the school with lower-than-average skills, but staff effectively help them catch up, particularly in reading. Phonics teaching is strong, and daily reading sessions enhance comprehension and vocabulary. Pupils enjoy literature, with a range of texts introduced at different year levels. Writing instruction is also effective, with many pupils achieving higher standards.
Mathematics teaching ensures that pupils develop fluency and quick recall of multiplication tables. By the end of key stage two, the school consistently exceeds national averages in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The curriculum is broad and engaging, with pupils enjoying challenging and interesting work. However, there is a need for leaders to monitor the implementation of the curriculum in subjects beyond the core areas to ensure outstanding achievement across all subjects.
Overall attendance is in line with national averages, and efforts to address persistent absence have been successful. Pupils enjoy school and appreciate the rewards for regular attendance. The next steps for the school include a planned review of the curriculum in non-core subjects to ensure effective knowledge delivery across all year groups.
