Lacey Green Primary Academy, located in Wilmslow, Cheshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on November 28 and 29, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The principal, Lorraine Dooley, leads the school, which operates as a single academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Darren Budd.
The school has established high expectations for academic success, which extend to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most students meet these high standards and are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors. Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences and appreciate the support provided by the staff. Strong friendships are evident among pupils, and children in the early years take pride in their learning environment. The school promotes a culture of respect and good manners, with pupils welcoming visitors warmly.
Lacey Green Primary Academy offers a variety of extracurricular clubs and activities designed to nurture pupils' talents and interests, including pottery, karate, and sports. Older pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as head boy or head girl, fostering a sense of responsibility and public duty. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, beginning in the early years and continuing through Year 6. Pupils excel particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics, with their attainment and progress in these subjects ranking among the highest nationally.
The school has effectively mapped out the essential knowledge for each year group across subjects, and teachers deliver lessons that build on prior understanding, allowing most pupils to develop secure knowledge over time. However, the school has identified that some subjects were not achieving the desired outcomes and has taken prompt action to address this. Despite these efforts, the school has not yet fully assessed the impact of the changes made to ensure that pupils are achieving as intended.
Teachers actively check on pupils' learning to identify gaps in knowledge, but this practice is not consistently applied across all subjects, leading to occasional disjointed learning experiences. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, integrating it into all aspects of learning. Initiatives such as author visits and reading ambassadors motivate pupils to engage with literature. In the early years, there is a focused approach to phonics, ensuring that children quickly acquire the skills needed to read.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers through thoughtful adaptations. During lessons, pupils are engaged and understand the value of their education, with younger children learning routines that promote independence. The school fosters a calm and respectful environment, supported by prefects who help maintain high behavioral standards.
Lacey Green Primary Academy prepares pupils for life in modern Britain by teaching fundamental British values and promoting respect for diversity. The school encourages pupils to share their cultural experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school's aspirations for their children. The board of trustees is well-informed and actively ensures that the school's work positively impacts pupils while managing staff workload effectively. The safeguarding arrangements in place are deemed effective, contributing to a safe learning environment for all students.
