Sandy Lane Primary School in Bracknell, Berkshire, underwent an inspection from February 4 to February 5, 2020, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress 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 were all rated as good.
Pupils at Sandy Lane Primary School take pride in their school and demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning. Teachers maintain high expectations for both behavior and academic performance, which fosters a conducive learning environment. Pupils are quick to settle into their classes and exhibit good behavior during lessons and throughout the school. They are polite and friendly, adhering to the school’s values of being positive, respectful, inclusive, driven, and excellent, collectively referred to as PRIDE. Pupils feel safe within the school environment, knowing that any incidents of poor behavior will be addressed promptly. They report that bullying is rare and that they have trusted adults to turn to with any concerns.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, enhancing the pupils' educational experience. Recent activities included participation in a choir festival in London and a drama workshop where pupils performed The Twits. Leaders at the school understand the importance of building on pupils' prior knowledge in their learning. The curriculum for reading, mathematics, and languages is well-structured, although plans for subjects like geography, history, and science are still being developed. In these areas, the logical progression of learning is not yet fully established.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, and the teaching of phonics has become a strength of the school. Pupils are making rapid progress in their reading skills, with early years education focusing on developing foundational reading and writing abilities. Teachers provide effective support for pupils who may be falling behind, ensuring they can catch up quickly. The school fosters a love for reading, as evidenced by pupils eagerly sharing books with one another.
The high expectations set by teachers contribute to a culture of good conduct across the school. When pupils struggle to meet these expectations, they receive appropriate support from trained staff, allowing them to focus on their learning. Attendance is celebrated, and the school provides assistance when attendance issues arise.
Sandy Lane Primary School places a strong emphasis on personal development, with staff actively promoting the PRIDE values. Pupils engage in various leadership roles, such as house captains and members of the Eco Council, which helps them understand their responsibilities as global citizens. The school has established strong relationships with families, offering workshops to assist parents in supporting their children's education.
Leaders have high expectations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. They are working to ensure that all learning is tailored to meet the needs of these pupils. While some areas of the curriculum are well-planned, others still require development to ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND, receive the support they need to thrive.
In the early years, children are engaged and excited about learning, thanks to a well-structured curriculum that emphasizes vocabulary development and mathematical understanding. The school has created a positive environment where children can build relationships and prepare for future learning.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sandy Lane Primary School are effective, with leaders and governors prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. Overall, Sandy Lane Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
