Lincoln Gardens Primary School, located in Ashby, Scunthorpe, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and safe environment where pupils express a strong sense of belonging and enjoyment in their learning. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all students and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere. This commitment is reflected in the curriculum, which has been enhanced to improve pupil achievement, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students.
The school emphasizes the development of successful learners through the implementation of the ‘Lincoln Gardens code,’ which encourages positive attitudes towards learning. Classrooms are vibrant spaces filled with engaged pupils who are eager to learn. The support provided by staff extends beyond academics, as they are attentive to the emotional well-being of students, ensuring that they feel safe and supported. Pupils have reported feeling free from worries while at school, highlighting the effectiveness of the school's supportive culture.
In the early years, children receive a strong foundation as staff carefully guide them through routines and expectations. The curriculum has been adapted to address gaps in vocabulary and communication skills, with a focus on encouraging children to articulate their thoughts in full sentences. The reading curriculum is structured to provide clear expectations for sound recognition, allowing pupils to practice and develop their reading skills effectively. Additionally, the mathematics curriculum is designed to build a solid understanding of numbers, with teachers adapting lessons based on pupils' prior knowledge.
The wider curriculum, including subjects like art and history, is well-structured, with subject leaders trained to design effective programs that build on students' existing knowledge. However, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils do not attend school regularly, which affects their learning opportunities. Leaders are actively working with families to enhance attendance rates, but challenges remain in ensuring consistent attendance for all students.
Furthermore, while the assessment system for the wider curriculum is in place, it is not utilized effectively to inform teaching practices. Teachers do not consistently use assessment data to address gaps in knowledge, which can hinder some pupils' learning. Leaders are encouraged to refine the assessment processes to better support pupils in recovering any knowledge gaps.
The school is committed to preparing pupils for life in modern Britain, teaching them about healthy relationships and lifestyles, as well as fostering an understanding of diversity. Recent initiatives have included studies on significant historical figures, which have enriched pupils' perspectives on migration and cultural differences.
Governance at Lincoln Gardens Primary School is strong, with governors actively involved in monitoring the school's progress and supporting leaders in their development efforts. Staff, particularly those new to the profession, receive adequate support, although there are suggestions for reducing workload to enhance job satisfaction.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, particularly in online environments, and they demonstrate an understanding of consent and appropriate behavior.
Overall, Lincoln Gardens Primary School provides a good quality of education, with a supportive environment that fosters learning and personal development. Continued efforts to improve attendance and refine assessment practices will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
