Swithland St Leonard’s Church of England Primary School, located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, was inspected on 24 and 25 October 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a strong educational environment for its pupils. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all assessed as good. The school had previously been rated outstanding during its last inspection 16 years ago, reflecting a long-standing commitment to high educational standards.
Pupils at Swithland St Leonard’s enjoy attending school and feel safe and happy in the nurturing environment provided by the staff. The school fosters strong relationships between pupils and staff, ensuring that pupils can express any concerns they may have. The use of ‘worry monsters’ around the school encourages pupils to communicate their worries, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. The curriculum is of high quality, and pupils achieve well across various subjects, demonstrating the effectiveness of the teaching methods employed.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to take on roles of responsibility, such as participating in the school council or acting as playground buddies. These roles help to instill a sense of pride and ownership among the pupils. The school also provides a wealth of extracurricular activities, including trips and residential experiences, which enhance the educational experience. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, with many recommending it for its welcoming and positive environment.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully revised to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly identified and sequenced, particularly for mixed-age classes. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, which aids in delivering the curriculum effectively. In subjects like science, pupils engage in hands-on investigations, allowing them to apply their knowledge practically. However, there are instances where information is presented too quickly, leading to some pupils not fully securing their understanding.
Teachers are adept at adapting their teaching to meet the diverse needs of pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils encouraged to read widely. The daily phonics sessions are effective in helping younger pupils develop their reading skills, and the books chosen for reading sessions reflect the diversity of modern Britain.
In the early years, staff focus on developing routines and self-regulation among children, preparing them well for their next stage of education. The school environment is calm and orderly, with pupils displaying good behaviour and a strong sense of belonging. They actively participate in school activities and contribute to the local community, demonstrating the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.
Governors play an active role in challenging school leaders to maintain high standards, and staff feel supported in their roles. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that resources and activities in the early years curriculum are used effectively to maximize learning opportunities. Additionally, in some subjects, teachers need to allow more time for pupils to grasp essential knowledge to deepen their understanding. Overall, Swithland St Leonard’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a positive and enriching environment for its pupils.
