Glebelands Primary School, located in Leicester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 27 and 28, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel safe, happy, and eager to learn. The atmosphere is characterized by polite greetings among students and staff, reflecting a strong sense of community. Pupils describe the school as a large family, and they appreciate the supportive relationships they have with their teachers, who are committed to listening and helping them with any issues they face.
The school maintains a calm and orderly environment, with teachers setting high expectations for behavior and academic performance. Pupils respond positively to these expectations, demonstrating good behavior throughout the school. The curriculum is designed to promote kindness, empathy, and respect, aligning with the school’s core values. Leaders emphasize the importance of character development alongside academic achievement, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
Glebelands Primary School is inclusive, teaching pupils about various faiths, cultures, and protected characteristics. This approach helps students celebrate diversity and understand the importance of inclusivity. Parents and carers hold the school in high regard, with many expressing their satisfaction with the education and support their children receive.
The school has developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that is progressive and tailored to the starting points of pupils. Leaders have clearly identified the knowledge and skills they want pupils to acquire, enabling them to build on prior learning and deepen their understanding across subjects. However, in some foundation subjects, the curriculum is still new and not as well embedded, which affects the depth of knowledge pupils develop in these areas. Leaders are encouraged to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these subjects to enhance pupils' learning experiences.
Teachers employ various activities and resources to support all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This inclusive approach helps all students achieve well across the curriculum. Teachers effectively check for understanding and present information clearly, ensuring that pupils can connect new knowledge with what they have previously learned. Pupils demonstrate confidence in discussing their learning, showcasing their understanding of topics across different subjects.
Reading is a priority at Glebelands, with children beginning their reading journey in the Reception Year. Teachers are skilled in early reading instruction and use assessments to ensure pupils keep pace with the reading program. When students show signs of struggling, teachers intervene promptly to provide support. This proactive approach helps pupils become proficient readers quickly.
The school’s Nursery provision is beneficial for younger children, promoting risk management through outdoor play and developing early numeracy skills. The early years environment is well-organized, although there are instances where adult interactions could be improved to enhance learning opportunities for children.
Beyond academics, the curriculum includes a rich selection of literature, with pupils reading numerous novels by the time they leave Year 6. This not only fosters a love for reading but also contributes to their cultural and social development. Pupils engage in discussions about the themes of resilience and diversity found in the texts they read.
Staff at Glebelands are dedicated and proud to work at the school, with leaders considering their workload when implementing new initiatives. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a vigilant culture established to protect pupils. Staff are trained to report concerns, and leaders collaborate with external agencies to support vulnerable families.
Overall, Glebelands Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on character development, inclusivity, and academic achievement. The school is well-regarded by parents and demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement in its educational practices.
