Lawley Primary School, located in Telford, Shropshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for its pupils, who express enjoyment in attending. They feel secure and confident, knowing that there are always adults available to address any concerns, including bullying. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned and comprehensive. Pupils engage in a diverse range of subjects, building on their prior knowledge and developing fluency in reading.
The school has established effective partnerships with local nurseries and childminders, which aids in the transition for new pupils. Technology is utilized effectively in the learning process, enhancing educational experiences. Pupils exhibit respect for one another and their teachers, demonstrating interest in their lessons and behaving well. They navigate the school premises sensibly and make good use of playground facilities during social times. The school enriches learning through visits and a well-structured program of residential trips, which contribute to character development. Opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities and participate in after-school clubs are also available.
The school has made significant strides in ensuring that learning is grounded in what pupils already know. Early years staff collaborate with those teaching incoming students to create a seamless transition. The curriculum is ambitious, covering all subjects in the national curriculum, including Spanish in key stage one. Reading is prioritized, with a structured phonics program in place that helps pupils learn letters and sounds in a logical sequence. Adults monitor pupils' progress closely, providing support to those at risk of falling behind. The school offers a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction texts, fostering a love for reading.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and generally plan effective activities that align with long-term learning goals. This results in pupils retaining key information over time. In English and mathematics, teachers identify misconceptions and provide constructive feedback. However, assessment practices in some foundation subjects are less clear, leaving pupils uncertain about how to improve their work. The school is proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, and staff are well-trained to support them. Nonetheless, the next steps for these pupils sometimes lack detail, which can hinder their progress.
Behaviour expectations are clearly established from the early years, and the school has recently emphasized recognizing positive behaviour. The environment is calm and orderly, with minimal disruption to learning. Pupils take pride in their school and their work. The personal development program teaches pupils about healthy relationships and cultural diversity, while also fostering confidence and resilience. Outdoor play is being enhanced to support pupils' well-being. Leaders are attuned to the school's needs and provide effective training for staff, who feel supported in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their interests prioritized. To improve, the school should clarify assessment systems in foundation subjects to help pupils understand how to enhance their work. Additionally, it should ensure that the next steps for pupils with special educational needs are clearly defined to provide the necessary support for their progress. Overall, Lawley Primary School is a good educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement.
