Ladygrove Primary School, located in Dawley, Telford, Shropshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in December 2019. The school embodies its mission statement, emphasizing the importance of each day and minute in the educational journey of its pupils. The leadership team, comprising the headteacher and deputy headteacher, demonstrates high expectations and a commitment to providing engaging and stimulating activities that foster the development of essential skills among students. The curriculum is designed around the concept of 'curriculum animals,' which include collaborative ants, wise owls, resourceful squirrels, and resilient tortoises, promoting a positive learning environment where pupils are motivated to work hard and achieve well.
Reading is prioritized at Ladygrove, with pupils expressing a genuine enjoyment of reading. Many students report that they read frequently, with one pupil noting the joy of getting lost in a book. The school fosters a sense of community, where pupils work and play together harmoniously, displaying caring attitudes towards one another. Older students often take on mentorship roles, assisting younger peers during lunchtime. The school environment is perceived as safe, with staff members knowing the students well and teaching them about safety, including internet safety. Pupils feel secure and are aware of how to seek help if needed, contributing to a culture where bullying is rare and swiftly addressed.
The school has developed a well-structured curriculum that integrates various subjects, allowing for a coherent learning experience. This approach helps pupils build knowledge effectively, particularly in science, where they demonstrate a solid understanding. However, there is a noted need for more opportunities to enhance scientific inquiry skills, as evidenced by Year 5 pupils' curiosity about the growth of the heart. The school also emphasizes the importance of developing well-rounded individuals through various experiences, such as residential trips and mindfulness days, which enrich the pupils' educational experience.
In the early years, children are engaged through exciting learning activities that promote their development and language skills. The school maintains strong communication with parents, who appreciate the information provided about their children's learning. Phonics instruction begins early, ensuring that children develop the necessary skills for fluent reading. Daily reading lessons further cultivate a love for reading among pupils.
Mathematics instruction is also a focus, with teachers ensuring that pupils grasp basic number skills and have opportunities to apply their knowledge in problem-solving contexts. However, there is a need for more emphasis on developing reasoning skills in mathematics, as pupils often lack confidence in explaining their answers. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored assistance to help them succeed. Nonetheless, there is room for improvement in involving parents in the planning of support for these pupils.
Staff morale is high, with teachers expressing pride in their association with Ladygrove and appreciating the manageable workload. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to prioritize pupil safety and respond to concerns promptly. Overall, while Ladygrove Primary School continues to excel in many areas, there are opportunities for further enhancement, particularly in developing scientific inquiry and reasoning skills in mathematics, as well as improving communication with parents regarding support for pupils with special educational needs.
