Belton Church of England Primary School, located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 3, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils express happiness and a strong attendance record. They engage in a diverse curriculum that prepares them well for future educational endeavors. Safety is a priority, with pupils aware of whom to approach with concerns and how to report issues through initiatives like the ‘whisper’ text program. The presence of e-safety ambassadors highlights the school’s commitment to online safety, ensuring that students feel supported in navigating potential online challenges.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior, showing respect towards peers and staff, with rare incidents of bullying effectively managed by the staff. The high expectations set by teachers contribute to a positive learning environment. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge across the curriculum. Some subjects lack the same level of planning and clarity as others, which can hinder the learning experience for certain students.
Parental feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the school’s ability to celebrate each child’s uniqueness and foster a love for learning. The curriculum aligns with national standards, but some foundation subjects are still in the early stages of development. This can lead to gaps in knowledge acquisition, as the curriculum does not consistently build on what children learn in Reception.
Teachers actively assess pupils’ learning and retention, using this information to address knowledge gaps and misconceptions. However, the effectiveness of these assessments varies across subjects, particularly in foundation areas. Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with staff trained in phonics and demonstrating expertise in teaching reading from the start of Reception. Regular progress checks help identify students needing additional support, fostering a love for reading through home practice and engaging reading materials.
The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, allowing for effective learning progression. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, and the systematic approach to mathematics begins early, helping children develop essential vocabulary and skills through interactive activities. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with teachers adapting the curriculum to meet their needs effectively.
The school offers a variety of enrichment activities, including sports and educational trips, which pupils enjoy and speak about enthusiastically. They learn about protected characteristics and the importance of respect, although there is a noted need for a deeper understanding of different faiths and cultures. This gap indicates that pupils may not be fully prepared for all aspects of life in modern Britain.
Staff members report a positive working environment, appreciating the support from leadership in managing their workload and well-being. Many parents feel their children are happy and safe at school, reinforcing the school’s positive reputation within the community. Governance is strong, with those responsible well-informed and understanding their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. However, the school recognizes the need for improvement in certain areas. Specifically, the planning of the curriculum in some foundation subjects requires more focus on key knowledge to ensure that all pupils learn effectively. The school must also enhance its assessment systems across all subjects to address misconceptions promptly and ensure that pupils retain the intended curriculum.
Furthermore, the personal development curriculum needs to provide more opportunities for pupils to deepen their understanding of various faiths and cultures, which is essential for preparing them for life in a diverse society. The school is committed to ensuring that its curriculum supports the development of British values and a comprehensive understanding of different cultures.
Overall, Belton Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong foundation in reading and mathematics, supportive staff, and a positive school culture. With targeted improvements in curriculum planning and assessment, the school can further enhance its educational offerings and better prepare pupils for their future.
