Randlay Primary School, located in Telford, Shropshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 28 and 29 September 2022. The school prioritizes the well-being and happiness of its pupils, fostering a nurturing environment where students feel safe and valued. Staff members maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and attitudes, providing necessary support to help students meet these standards throughout the school day. The school has effectively addressed any instances of unkind behavior, ensuring that pupils report a positive atmosphere free from bullying.
The curriculum at Randlay Primary is engaging and designed to captivate students' interests. Pupils express enthusiasm for outdoor learning experiences that connect them with nature. They demonstrate a solid understanding of the subjects taught, retaining knowledge and making connections across their learning. While most pupils read well for their age, there are some who struggle with fluency, indicating a need for targeted support in this area.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that allow pupils to explore their talents and interests, including sports, music, and cooking clubs. Cultural experiences are also an integral part of the curriculum, with opportunities for pupils to visit the theatre and local natural sites. Leaders and governors have shown commitment to improving the quality of education, implementing significant changes to the curriculum in recent years, including a revised approach to mathematics and a new phonics program. The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring that all subjects are coherently designed and that pupils acquire essential knowledge from early years through to Year 6.
Reading is a key focus at Randlay Primary, with leaders prioritizing the development of reading skills from the earliest stages. In Nursery, children engage with stories and develop sound awareness, which is built upon in Reception and Year 1 through daily phonics lessons. By Year 2, pupils delve deeper into texts, enhancing their vocabulary and comprehension skills. However, a small number of pupils still face challenges in reading fluently, which can affect their confidence and understanding.
Mathematics is another critical component of the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on counting and number understanding starting in Nursery. The curriculum is designed to build on prior knowledge and deepen pupils' understanding, enabling them to reason and solve problems effectively. In subjects like history, pupils are developing a grasp of significant concepts, demonstrating their ability to explain historical events and their relevance.
Assessment practices are well thought out, with staff employing various strategies to gauge pupil progress and inform their teaching. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support to access the curriculum, ensuring that all learners can engage with the material. The school environment promotes positive behavior, with minimal disruption to learning, and pupils are friendly and welcoming to visitors.
Through the wider curriculum, pupils learn about important global issues and cultural diversity, preparing them for life in modern Britain. Staff feel supported by school leaders, who consider their workload and provide necessary resources. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils know how to stay safe both online and in their communities.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in supporting a small number of pupils who struggle with early reading. Leaders are encouraged to ensure these pupils receive the necessary assistance to enhance their reading fluency and confidence. Overall, Randlay Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
