The Pochin School, located in Barkby, Leicester, has been rated as outstanding following its inspection in April 2014. This is the first inspection since the school became an academy in October 2012. The school demonstrates exceptional effectiveness in all areas, including the achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behavior and safety, and leadership and management. Pupils make outstanding progress from their varied starting points, achieving standards in English and mathematics that are well above national averages by the end of Year 6. The school has a strong focus on promoting pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, which is evident in the positive feedback from both pupils and parents.
Teaching at The Pochin School is highly effective, with teachers demonstrating excellent subject knowledge and a deep understanding of their pupils' needs. They engage students with interesting and relevant material, ensuring that lessons are both challenging and enjoyable. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including competitive sports and educational visits, which further enrich the pupils' learning experiences. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, contributing to a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Pupils from diverse backgrounds interact well, fostering a sense of community within the school.
The governing body plays a crucial role in the school's success, providing effective oversight and support for high achievement. Governors are well-informed about the school's performance and actively hold the school accountable for its results. The headteacher and staff share high ambitions for the pupils and are committed to continuous improvement. The quality of teaching is closely monitored, and staff are encouraged to collaborate and share best practices to enhance their skills.
The school has identified areas for further improvement, particularly in providing greater challenge for the most able pupils to ensure that more reach the highest levels in reading, writing, and mathematics. Additionally, the school aims to enhance the sharing of expertise among teachers to maintain high teaching standards across all classes. The Early Years Foundation Stage is also effective, with children receiving strong support to develop their language and mathematical skills.
Pupils eligible for the pupil premium receive excellent support, ensuring that they make progress in line with their peers. The school is proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs, providing tailored support that enables them to thrive. The school environment promotes safety and well-being, with effective measures in place to prevent bullying and ensure that pupils feel secure.
Overall, The Pochin School is a vibrant and nurturing educational institution that prioritizes the needs of its pupils. The strong leadership, dedicated staff, and supportive community contribute to an outstanding educational experience, preparing pupils well for their future endeavors. The school is committed to maintaining its high standards and continuously seeking ways to enhance the quality of education it provides.
