Glen Hills Primary School, located in Leicester, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Rebecca Wesley, the school is part of the Symphony Learning Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Tim Sutcliffe and a board of trustees chaired by Nigel Harrison.
The school’s motto, education today for tomorrow, is evident in the positive environment fostered for pupils. Students report feeling happy and safe, and they enjoy their learning experiences. The staff is dedicated to acting in the best interests of the pupils, and there is a strong sense of collaboration among leaders and staff to help every child reach their full potential. Reading is emphasized as a critical component of future success, and pupils demonstrate hard work and achievement across various subjects.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with clear expectations set by staff who model these standards daily. Pupils exhibit respect and tolerance, valuing the diverse backgrounds and cultures of their peers. The school promotes inclusivity, as highlighted by a pupil's remark that everyone is welcome here – equality matters.
Glen Hills Primary School offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities that enhance the educational experience. Pupils participate in various clubs and activities, including gardening, basketball, and craft clubs, ensuring there is something for everyone. The school also organizes theme days and educational trips, such as a Victorian day and visits to the local church, which further enrich the curriculum.
Parents and carers express appreciation for the school's holistic approach to education, supporting the development of the whole child. The school excels in its early years program, where children in Reception receive a strong start, particularly in communication, language, and mathematics. The structured approach to teaching phonics begins in Reception and continues throughout the school, ensuring that pupils develop essential reading skills effectively.
The curriculum at Glen Hills is broad and ambitious, with detailed planning that outlines the knowledge, skills, and vocabulary pupils are expected to learn. Staff are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to present information clearly and check pupils' understanding regularly. While most pupils learn and retain what they are taught, some struggle to remember key knowledge, prompting leaders to work on making conceptual links between subjects clearer.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with accurate identification and appropriate adaptations made to ensure all pupils can engage with the curriculum. Relationships within the school are warm and supportive, fostering an environment where low-level disruption is rare. Pupils understand behavioral expectations and strive to meet them, utilizing their character muscles to develop focus and empathy.
Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with pupils benefiting from a well-rounded curriculum that includes lessons on British values and diversity. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, such as becoming school councillors or well-being ambassadors. The governing body is knowledgeable about the school and provides effective support and challenge, while staff feel valued and supported in their roles.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are kept safe and their well-being is prioritized. Moving forward, the school aims to enhance its curriculum by further clarifying conceptual links across subjects, enabling pupils to retain and connect their learning more effectively. Overall, Glen Hills Primary School remains a good school, committed to providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
