Lawn Primary and Nursery School in Swindon, Wiltshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere where pupils thrive and feel a strong sense of belonging. Students express happiness, safety, and care within the school community. They appreciate the responsiveness of teachers to their concerns, particularly through the use of worry boxes in classrooms, and report that bullying is not a significant issue.
The school offers a diverse range of engaging opportunities, with many pupils participating in creative, sporting, and cultural activities. As they progress through their education, students embrace new experiences and challenges, including residential trips and extracurricular visits. The leadership and teaching staff maintain high expectations for both academic achievement and behavior, resulting in calm and purposeful classrooms where students are focused and engaged in their learning.
Parental support for the school is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the strong community ties and satisfaction with the school's efforts. The leadership team is ambitious and dedicated to equipping pupils with the knowledge and experiences necessary for their development. In subjects like mathematics and reading, the curriculum is well-structured, clearly outlining the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught. However, there are a few foundation subjects where the curriculum is not yet fully developed, and leaders are working to enhance these areas.
Pupils demonstrate strong academic performance from the early years through to Year 6, with a well-structured curriculum that effectively prepares them for key stage 1. The teaching methods employed ensure that pupils grasp their learning objectives, fostering a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. In the early years, children benefit from a rich learning environment that stimulates their curiosity and language development, supported by skilled staff who encourage exploration and confidence in their abilities.
The school is highly inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities learn alongside their peers. Leaders collaborate effectively with staff, parents, and pupils to set and review learning targets, enabling these students to develop their skills across the curriculum. The commitment to inclusivity is evident, as every pupil is valued and supported to participate fully in school life.
Improvements in reading instruction have yielded positive results, with well-trained staff effectively teaching phonics and providing ample opportunities for daily reading practice. Older pupils recognize the importance of reading proficiency for success in other subjects and for their future education.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with pupils displaying positive attitudes and respect for adults. The school prioritizes the wider development of pupils, encouraging them to take on responsibilities and support their peers. Initiatives such as anti-bullying ambassadors and various leadership opportunities help cultivate character and promote the school's core values. Pastoral support is a strength, with a focus on mental well-being and emotional understanding.
Teachers benefit from the expertise of school leaders, who are attentive to staff workload and welfare. Governors play an active role in the school's improvement by engaging with leaders and asking informed questions to assess the impact of their actions. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and prompt reporting of concerns, ensuring that pupils are well protected.
While the school has many strengths, there is a need for refinement in the curriculum for certain foundation subjects to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Lawn Primary and Nursery School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
