Ashby-de-la-Zouch Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 7 and 8, 2023. The school is characterized by a joyful and inclusive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and happy. The behavior of students is noted as a significant strength, with high levels of engagement observed during lessons. Staff maintain high expectations, and pupils are aware of the school’s mission to help them achieve their potential, challenge their creative minds, and nurture their talents.
The school celebrates the differences among pupils, fostering strong relationships between staff and students. This supportive environment contributes to a deep sense of belonging among the pupils. They are well-mannered and interact respectfully with one another, embodying the school’s Christian values. Effective support systems are in place for those who struggle with emotional and behavioral management.
Pupils have access to a variety of additional learning experiences, including trips, clubs, and opportunities for taking on responsibilities. They express pride in their roles, with one pupil stating their aim is to make the school a better place. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. The school has been successful in ensuring that pupils achieve well and take pride in their accomplishments.
The mathematics curriculum is particularly well-structured, providing pupils with opportunities to develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Lessons are designed to reinforce previous learning, helping pupils retain knowledge effectively. The curriculum in foundation subjects outlines essential knowledge and how it should progress over time, although some subjects are more developed than others. In a few areas, the curriculum is still new, and systems to assess pupils’ understanding are not fully established, leading to inconsistent recall of learning.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and provides appropriate resources to ensure they can access the full curriculum. Children in the Reception Year receive a strong start, with high expectations set by staff. Clear routines are established, and the provision is well-resourced, fostering warm and nurturing relationships between adults and children. Children learn about healthy lifestyles, demonstrating awareness of the importance of dental hygiene.
A strong reading culture exists within the school, with reading viewed as essential for accessing the wider curriculum. Pupils enjoy reading, and staff are well-trained in phonics and early reading instruction. The reading materials provided are well-matched to the phonics being taught, supporting the development of decoding skills. Additional support is available for those who need it, and the reading curriculum extends beyond phonics to enhance vocabulary and comprehension.
Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, demonstrating an understanding of diverse family structures and relationships. They grasp fundamental British values and can relate them to their own experiences. The school encourages a culture of voting and participation, allowing pupils to have a voice in school matters. Staff feel supported regarding their workload, with approachable leadership and a focus on well-being. They have access to various training opportunities and express pride in their work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum needs to ensure that all subjects support pupils in retaining knowledge over time. The school is committed to addressing these areas to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils. This inspection marks the second ungraded inspection since the school was last judged to be good in June 2014, reflecting its ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards in education.
