Ashby Hill Top Primary School, located in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, has recently undergone an inspection on April 16 and 17, 2024, and has been rated as outstanding in all areas of evaluation. The school is led by executive headteacher Sylvie Newman and is part of the Symphony Learning Trust, which provides additional oversight and support through its CEO Tim Sutcliffe and a board of trustees chaired by Nigel Harrison. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school was last inspected in April 2013, when it also received an outstanding rating.
The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who proudly identify as Hill Toppers. They express a deep sense of belonging and confidence, feeling that their individual needs are understood and supported by both staff and peers. The school promotes a culture of safety and acceptance, where pupils are encouraged to be themselves and know that help is readily available if needed. The school's behavioral expectations, encapsulated in the motto be ready, be respectful, be safe, are well understood and adhered to by all students. Younger pupils demonstrate effective conflict resolution skills, while older students show grace in accommodating one another. Initiatives led by pupils, such as recycling projects and library refurbishments, reflect their commitment to improving their school environment for future generations.
Parents have expressed overwhelming support for the school, praising the staff for their dedication and commitment to ensuring that every child feels welcome and valued. Many parents noted that the staff genuinely prioritize the happiness and well-being of the children, which in turn fosters a desire to learn and succeed.
The school is dedicated to providing every child with a strong foundation from their earliest days in Reception. There are numerous opportunities for families to engage with staff before their children start full-time education, ensuring that the right support is in place for children with additional needs. The staff maintain high expectations for all pupils, and routines for learning are well established, allowing children to engage in activities independently. For instance, children are encouraged to explore their creativity through various media, demonstrating thoughtful choices in their work.
Phonics lessons are particularly engaging for the youngest pupils, who easily recall their learning. The school effectively supports children with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can participate fully in all activities. The curriculum is carefully designed to build on prior knowledge, particularly in mathematics, and adaptations are made to support pupils with additional needs.
Pupils demonstrate a rich understanding of complex concepts across subjects, including religious education and science. They articulate their readiness for new learning experiences as they transition to different year groups. The school's values of belonging, thriving, and succeeding are deeply ingrained in the culture, and pupils exhibit a strong grasp of fundamental British values, understanding the balance between following rules and maintaining personal beliefs.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is comprehensive, with pupils regularly revisiting strategies for maintaining calm and well-being. A wide range of extracurricular clubs and activities is available, allowing all pupils to explore and develop their interests and talents. Attendance is strong, and parents feel confident that their children are well-prepared for secondary education.
Staff members emphasize that children are at the heart of all decisions made within the school. They feel well-supported by leadership and appreciate the professional development opportunities provided through the multi-academy trust. There is a shared aspiration among staff to excel in their roles and serve the local community effectively.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring that the welfare of pupils is prioritized. Overall, Ashby Hill Top Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, creating an environment where pupils feel valued, supported, and ready to learn. The commitment of the staff, the engagement of the parents, and the enthusiasm of the pupils contribute to a thriving educational community.
