Lord Scudamore Primary Academy, located in Hereford, Herefordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy attending and develop strong relationships with both their peers and staff. The sense of community is evident, with students describing the school as a large family where kindness and consideration are paramount. Pupils feel safe and happy, contributing to an atmosphere conducive to learning.
The leadership team at Lord Scudamore Primary Academy maintains high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. Pupils consistently strive to meet these expectations, resulting in exemplary behavior throughout the school. Disruptions to learning are rare, and even the youngest children quickly adapt to daily routines. The school effectively addresses bullying, which occurs infrequently, and staff are proactive in resolving any issues that arise, ensuring a supportive environment.
The school plays a vital role in the local community, with pupils taking pride in its history and the age of the building. They engage in various responsibilities, such as participating in the school council or eco-committee, and enjoy field trips to local attractions that enhance their learning experiences. Recent activities included visitors who helped recreate rainforest life, further enriching the curriculum.
The curriculum at Lord Scudamore is ambitious, broad, and balanced, designed to build knowledge and skills progressively from early years through Year 6. For instance, history lessons revisit concepts of invasion, allowing pupils to connect their learning over time. Overall, pupils achieve well, although there are some subjects where the curriculum is still developing. In these areas, there may be instances where the intended curriculum is not fully delivered, and new subject leaders may require additional support to monitor progress effectively.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' learning and provide targeted support when needed. This approach helps identify gaps in knowledge, allowing for timely interventions. A strong emphasis is placed on reading, with phonics instruction starting in Reception. Staff are well-trained in delivering the phonics curriculum, ensuring that pupils have ample opportunities to practice their reading skills with appropriately matched texts. Older pupils develop a love for reading, supported by a selection of high-quality literature.
Pupils also benefit from a range of extracurricular activities that promote their wider development, including sports, languages, and community engagement initiatives. They demonstrate an understanding of diverse cultures and faiths, welcoming the variety of families within the school.
The identification and support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is a notable strength of the school. Leaders ensure that staff are aware of individual needs and provide appropriate support, allowing these pupils to access the same curriculum as their peers.
Staff at Lord Scudamore are proud to work at the school, and leaders are attentive to their well-being and workload. The school has established effective safeguarding measures, creating a culture of safety and vigilance. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe, particularly online.
While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is consistently delivered as intended across all subjects. Leaders are encouraged to provide subject leaders with the necessary time and training to monitor and enhance the learning experience for all pupils. Overall, Lord Scudamore Primary Academy continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its students.
