Leagrave Primary School, located in Luton, Bedfordshire, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness in education. The recent inspection conducted on 15 and 16 October 2024 confirmed that the school has effectively maintained the high standards established during its previous inspection in December 2018. The school community, comprising both pupils and staff, exhibits a strong sense of pride and belonging, fostering an environment where students can easily form friendships. The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by mutual respect, which significantly contributes to the motivation and engagement of learners.
The curriculum at Leagrave Primary School is both broad and challenging, allowing pupils to excel across various subjects. Students take pride in their work and are eager to discuss their achievements. The behavior of pupils is exemplary; they demonstrate politeness and courtesy towards one another and visitors. From the outset, staff set high expectations for behavior, which pupils consistently meet. This supportive environment ensures that students feel safe and are able to thrive academically.
The school has implemented a well-structured personal development program that educates pupils about their rights and responsibilities. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as prefects and school councillors, empower students to feel valued and to contribute to the school community. Through charity work, pupils learn the importance of empathy and consideration for others.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum. The curriculum is meticulously designed to progress from Nursery through Year 6, with knowledge structured into manageable steps that build a solid foundation for future learning. Pupils perform well in national assessments, demonstrating readiness for secondary education.
Staff training is prioritized to ensure that teachers are well-versed in the curriculum. Engaging and inspiring activities are employed to captivate pupils' interest, while revisiting prior learning helps reinforce understanding. Teachers effectively identify gaps in pupils' knowledge, providing timely support to ensure that all students can progress in their learning.
Reading and language acquisition are central to the curriculum, beginning in Nursery with a language-rich environment and access to diverse texts. Early readers develop fluency and confidence, with tailored support provided as needed. Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and enjoy exploring new books.
The school is adept at identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed. High expectations for behavior are established from the start, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
Leagrave Primary School has worked diligently to improve attendance rates following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff collaborate closely with families to provide support, reinforcing the importance of regular school attendance for effective learning.
The extensive personal development program equips pupils with knowledge about British values, health, and well-being. They learn to maintain a healthy lifestyle and develop strategies for mental health support. The curriculum is enriched through various visits and guest speakers, enhancing the educational experience.
Leaders prioritize staff well-being and training, ensuring that changes do not overwhelm staff workloads. The morale among staff is high, and governors maintain a strong understanding of the school's context, collaborating with leaders to uphold high standards. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Leagrave Primary School continues to demonstrate excellence in its educational provision, fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment for its students.
