Lethbridge Primary School, located in Swindon, Wiltshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 23 and 24, 2023. The school is characterized by a strong culture of high expectations set by its leaders, which fosters an environment where pupils thrive. Students take pride in their school and act as excellent ambassadors, reflecting the positive atmosphere cultivated by the staff. The curriculum is rich and ambitious, designed to engage pupils and instill enthusiasm for learning new knowledge.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students demonstrating courtesy and respect towards both adults and peers. Strong relationships exist between pupils and staff, contributing to a supportive environment where bullying is not tolerated and is addressed promptly. Pupils feel safe and have access to trusted adults for sharing concerns, which enhances their overall well-being.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that enrich the educational experience. Pupils express excitement about participating in themed weeks focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as cultural visits such as the Royal Ballet in London. Leadership opportunities abound, with pupils taking on roles in the school council and eco-committee, and serving as playground buddies or reading ambassadors, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Leaders have thoughtfully structured the curriculum to ensure that essential knowledge is imparted across most subjects. Teachers effectively present lessons that engage pupils, who can articulate their learning confidently. Regular assessments help track pupil progress, and the curriculum promotes meaningful connections across subjects. However, in certain subjects, there is a need for clearer identification of the specific knowledge and vocabulary that pupils should master. This gap can hinder pupils' ability to retain key concepts and make connections, particularly noted in science where vocabulary retention poses challenges.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-planned and executed, allowing these students to access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. While some parents have expressed concerns regarding the support for SEND pupils, many others have praised the quality of provision.
Reading is a priority at Lethbridge Primary School, with a carefully curated selection of books that expose pupils to diverse cultures and backgrounds. The phonics program is robust, ensuring that children develop strong foundational reading skills from an early age. Regular progress checks and tailored support for struggling readers contribute to a positive reading culture.
The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, allowing pupils to build solid foundations and master new concepts confidently. Teachers revisit key ideas to reinforce understanding and address any gaps in knowledge, resulting in enthusiastic learners who build on their existing knowledge.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, contributing to a focused classroom environment. Leaders provide various supports for pupils needing assistance with emotional management, ensuring that all students can thrive.
The school prioritizes the holistic development of pupils, offering numerous extracurricular opportunities that enhance their educational experience. Residential trips and inter-school debates are highlights for many students, who also learn to respect and celebrate diversity.
Leaders are attentive to staff workload and well-being, fostering a collaborative environment among governors and trust leaders who share a vision for all pupils. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety promoted throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report concerns, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported.
Overall, Lethbridge Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience, with a commitment to improvement in specific areas to enhance pupil learning and retention of knowledge.
