Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Lugwardine Primary Academy on 22 January 2019, following its previous judgment of good in September 2014. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team, under Miss Lindsey Taylor, has effectively upheld academic standards, with a notable increase in the proportion of Year 6 pupils achieving the expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics since 2016. The leadership approach is characterized by being informed, organized, systematic, and evaluative, which has contributed to the strengthening of various aspects of the school’s operations.
Communication within the school is clear, and all stakeholders, including pupils, staff, and governors, understand their roles and expectations. The leadership team has prioritized training and established effective systems to ensure pupil safety and promote good behavior. Pupils present themselves well, adhering to the school uniform policy, attending regularly, and displaying politeness and friendliness in class. The school has successfully addressed all recommendations from the previous inspection, with subject leaders demonstrating confidence and enthusiasm in their roles. The early years provision is particularly effective, providing children with a strong foundation for their educational journey.
Looking ahead, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics, where the challenge level for the most able pupils needs to be increased. Additionally, inconsistencies in spelling and communication with parents were noted. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a robust leadership structure in place. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding protocols, and pupils feel supported and listened to regarding their concerns. The school actively promotes respect and safety through assemblies and lessons, and it engages parents with information sessions on topics like internet safety.
The inspection findings highlighted a consistent upward trend in reading standards over the past three years, with 2018 results exceeding national averages. The school fosters a positive reading culture, encouraging regular reading for pleasure and academic purposes. The early years classroom is engaging and well-resourced, promoting curiosity and independence among children. As pupils progress through the school, their reading and writing skills continue to develop, supported by a focus on vocabulary enhancement and peer review of work.
Mathematics teaching is effective, with teachers demonstrating secure subject knowledge and providing ample practice opportunities. However, some tasks for the most able pupils lack sufficient challenge, as observed during the inspection. The school’s curriculum is broad and engaging, with various extracurricular activities and trips that enrich the educational experience. The school environment is vibrant, with displays showcasing pupils’ work across subjects.
To further enhance the school’s performance, leaders and governors are encouraged to continue improving spelling, raise mathematics standards for the most able pupils, and enhance communication with parents regarding behavior management. Overall, the inspection affirmed the school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education and supporting the well-being of its pupils. The positive atmosphere, effective leadership, and dedication to continuous improvement contribute to the school’s ongoing success.
