Queensmead Primary Academy, located in Braunstone, Leicester, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 30 and May 1, 2024. The headteacher, Liz Latham, leads the school, which is part of the Greenwood Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Wayne Norrie and a board of trustees chaired by Mike Hamlin. The school provides a positive and ambitious learning environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The early years setting lays a strong foundation for learning, fostering curiosity and independence among children as they engage with a variety of activities.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior and a strong attitude towards learning, demonstrating concentration in lessons and respect for one another. They take pride in their relationships and actively support each other's well-being, ensuring that everyone has a friend during playtime. The school promotes a culture of respect and inclusivity, which is evident in the pupils' interactions. The school's ambition for all students to achieve their best is reflected in the high-quality displays throughout the premises, showcasing both creative and academic accomplishments.
Reading is a key focus at Queensmead, with a well-structured approach that begins in the early years. Pupils enjoy reading and benefit from a diverse selection of books linked to the curriculum, supported by an inspiring library. The staff are skilled in teaching reading, and the school closely monitors pupils' progress to provide timely support for those who need it. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored assistance to help them succeed.
The curriculum at Queensmead is ambitious and well-taught across many subjects, with staff demonstrating strong subject knowledge. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in some foundation subjects where pupils may not have sufficient opportunities to revisit previously learned knowledge. This can lead to challenges in recalling important information and connecting learning across different subjects.
The early years environment is organized effectively, promoting positive attitudes towards learning and strong relationships between adults and children. Staff engage in meaningful conversations that enhance children's vocabulary and confidence. The school has made strides in improving attendance, providing support to families facing barriers to regular attendance. However, there remains work to be done, as some pupils still miss significant amounts of school, which can hinder their learning.
Queensmead offers extensive and innovative opportunities for pupils to develop leadership skills, such as becoming eco-warriors or school councillors. The school's unique purple pound economy scheme allows pupils to engage in financial decision-making and develop life skills. A variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, further enrich the pupils' experiences.
Trustees are actively involved in monitoring the school's progress and supporting staff well-being. The culture of mutual support among staff is evident, and they appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its performance, the school must focus on improving attendance rates and ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support to attend regularly. Additionally, it should work on strengthening the curriculum in foundation subjects to ensure that pupils retain and build upon their knowledge over time. Overall, Queensmead Primary Academy continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and success of its pupils.
