Thurlaston Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a welcoming and friendly environment for its pupils. The school is characterized by its strong Christian values, which are evident in the behavior and attitudes of the students. Pupils demonstrate politeness and respect, contributing to a positive atmosphere where they feel safe and supported. The leadership and staff maintain high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement, fostering a calm and purposeful learning environment. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and pupils express confidence in the support they receive from trusted adults within the school.
The school prides itself on inclusivity, with leaders committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to thrive. Staff members take the time to understand each pupil individually, which enhances the overall learning experience. Pupils are encouraged to engage actively in school life, taking on roles such as school council members and monitors, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and community.
Parental support for the school is strong, with many parents expressing satisfaction with the inclusive and caring atmosphere. The majority would recommend the school to others, highlighting the emphasis on kindness and community spirit.
In terms of academic performance, the school has set ambitious goals for its pupils, aiming to provide them with a solid foundation for their education. Leaders have clearly identified the knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire from early years through to Year 6 across most subjects. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and a passion for their teaching, ensuring that pupils understand how their learning builds on prior knowledge. This is particularly evident in the history curriculum, which is recognized as a strength of the school.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching to meet individual needs, particularly for those with SEND. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of assessment practices across all subjects. Some teachers do not always utilize assessment effectively to address misconceptions, which can hinder pupil progress.
The school has recently implemented a new early reading program, which has been well-received. Staff training has ensured a consistent approach to teaching reading, with pupils benefiting from well-matched reading materials. This has led to good progress in developing their reading skills.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons and take pride in their achievements, motivated by the school's reward system. However, there is a need for improvement in the personal, social, and health education curriculum, as leaders have not yet defined the key knowledge that pupils should acquire in this area. The current curriculum lacks a structured approach to building knowledge over time.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with leaders demonstrating a strong commitment to pupil safety. Staff receive regular training, and pupils are educated on how to stay safe, including online safety.
Overall, while Thurlaston Church of England Primary School has many strengths, including a supportive environment and effective teaching practices, there are areas that require attention to ensure continued improvement and success for all pupils.
