Waltham Leas Primary Academy, located in Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 1st and 2nd of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education. The headteacher, Claire Rigg, leads the school, which is part of Waltham Leas Primary Academy Limited, overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Helen Jayne Spauls.
Pupils at Waltham Leas Primary Academy express happiness and enjoyment in their school experience. They feel included in all aspects of school life and recognize that their opinions are valued. The school fosters a positive learning environment where students appreciate their teachers and engage actively in lessons across various subjects. High expectations for learning and achievement are evident, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes and a willingness to learn. This positive engagement extends to the early years, where children understand the importance of learning from mistakes and strive to do their best.
The school promotes an understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion among its pupils. They are respectful and polite, recognizing and celebrating differences among themselves and others. The school provides a range of enrichment experiences, including outdoor learning, sports, arts, and various clubs, which contribute to a well-rounded education. Activities such as camping and local visits enhance their learning experiences, while dance sessions offer strategies for stress relief.
Waltham Leas Primary Academy has developed a balanced and ambitious curriculum, supported by partnerships with other educational providers. The curriculum is designed to build on prior learning, ensuring that pupils progress effectively. Teachers possess secure subject knowledge and employ suitable activities to deliver content. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the use of assessment strategies in some subjects, which can hinder the depth of pupils' understanding.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well-supported, following the full curriculum with timely interventions from staff. The school collaborates closely with parents and professionals to identify and address additional needs, ensuring that these pupils also achieve well. The school has made significant efforts to foster a love of reading, providing high-quality texts and engaging parents in their children's reading journeys.
Behaviour at the school is generally positive, with effective measures in place to address any issues that arise. The early years children demonstrate excellent social skills, playing and interacting kindly with one another. Transition arrangements are well thought out, helping children settle into school routines smoothly.
The school also emphasizes personal development, offering opportunities for pupils to engage in meaningful discussions and take on leadership roles. Activities such as recycling and fundraising help cultivate responsible citizenship among students. The collaboration between trustees and school leaders aims to enhance the quality of education, with staff feeling valued and supported in their roles.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Some assessment strategies need refinement to ensure that pupils develop a deeper understanding of the curriculum. Additionally, consistency in delivering the phonics program is essential to support all pupils in becoming fluent readers. Overall, Waltham Leas Primary Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education, with a focus on continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils and staff.
