Green Lane Primary Academy, located in Garforth, Leeds, has recently undergone its first inspection since converting to academy status. The inspection, conducted on November 15 and 16, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The head of the academy, Joanne Sercombe, leads a dedicated team under the Delta Academies Trust, which is overseen by CEO Paul Tarn and a board of trustees chaired by Steve Hodsman.
The school aims to provide the highest standards of teaching, learning, and pastoral care, and it has successfully achieved this ambition. Leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils, fostering an environment where students thrive academically and socially. Pupils demonstrate excellent recall of their learning and are well-prepared for their next educational stages. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, as they learn to make positive choices and take responsibility for their actions. They exhibit kindness and consideration towards one another, feeling safe and happy within the school environment. The school promotes a culture where pupils know they are heard and supported by adults, and they are equipped to resolve minor concerns independently.
Green Lane Primary Academy offers a wide range of enrichment activities, including various school clubs that nurture pupils' talents and interests. From knitting to climbing, pupils engage in diverse skill-building opportunities. Trust-wide events such as sports festivals and computing competitions further enhance their educational experience. The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, characterized by a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. Staff serve as excellent role models, actively engaging children in their learning and fostering a love for nursery rhymes and storytelling.
The school excels in its early years provision, which is recognized as a key strength. Staff create a positive atmosphere where children are immersed in learning, making connections across various subjects. The curriculum is designed to interconnect language, number, and physical skills, encouraging children to support one another in creative activities. A strong emphasis on reading is evident, with a rigorous early reading program that ensures pupils become fluent readers. Teachers intervene promptly when pupils struggle, and reading is celebrated throughout the school.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn in each subject. Leaders have tailored the curriculum to reflect the local context, ensuring relevance and engagement. Opportunities for pupils to revisit previous learning are built into the curriculum, enhancing long-term retention of knowledge. This approach has positively impacted pupils' achievements in reading, writing, and mathematics.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same high-quality education as their peers. Teachers adapt their teaching methods to meet individual needs, providing targeted support that enables these pupils to succeed alongside their classmates. The personal development program is aspirational, promoting character development and a broad understanding of British values and diverse beliefs.
Leadership at Green Lane Primary Academy is characterized by a clear vision and effective collaboration between school leaders and the trust. The trust provides robust professional development opportunities for staff, ensuring high standards of teaching and governance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, creating a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. Overall, Green Lane Primary Academy stands out as an exemplary institution, dedicated to fostering a positive and enriching educational experience for its students.
