Lacock Church of England Primary School, located in Chippenham, Wiltshire, has recently undergone an inspection on May 8 and 9, 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good, with behavior and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating.
Pupils at the school thrive in a supportive environment characterized by kindness and respect. The ethos known as ‘The Lacock Way’ fosters a sense of community, making students feel like they are part of a large family. Exemplary behavior is evident, with bullying and poor conduct being rare due to the strong pastoral care provided. This nurturing atmosphere contributes to pupils feeling safe and happy, enhancing their overall school experience.
The school ensures that children in Reception start strong, with a well-planned curriculum that prepares pupils for their next steps in education. The curriculum is designed to engage students, promoting curiosity and enjoyment in learning. Reading is particularly emphasized, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for discussing books with their teachers. The school prioritizes pupils' well-being, fostering a culture of inclusivity and reflection, where students learn from mistakes and celebrate each other's successes.
Lacock Church of England Primary School is ambitious for all its pupils, having adapted its curriculum to cater to mixed-age classes. The content is challenging and thought-provoking, leading to positive attitudes towards learning. In the early years, activities are carefully planned to develop essential skills across various learning areas, with a focus on high-quality interactions between staff and children. Vocabulary development and understanding of the world are prioritized.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Assessment practices in some subjects are not yet fully established, which limits the school's ability to accurately gauge pupils' retention of knowledge over time. Subject leaders require further support to monitor curriculum implementation effectively, ensuring consistency across all subjects and classes. Additionally, while most staff present information clearly, there is a need for a more robust system to check pupils' understanding and knowledge retention.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with accurate identification and skilled assistance from additional adults. The school promotes inclusivity, with staff and pupils learning Makaton to aid communication for those with difficulties. Behavior in lessons is commendable, with pupils understanding the rules and respecting differences among peers. They are educated on maintaining physical and mental health, as well as the school's values, which they reflect upon in class assemblies.
The school offers numerous extracurricular opportunities, including clubs and trips, fostering active citizenship through charity support and fundraising for school projects. The positive relationships between the school and parents contribute to a supportive community. Overall, the school has made significant improvements since the last inspection, with effective safeguarding arrangements in place. The commitment to enhancing the quality of education and ensuring the well-being of all pupils is evident, positioning Lacock Church of England Primary School as a strong educational institution within its community.
