Broom Leys School, located in Coalville, Leicestershire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. The headteacher, Robert Prior, leads the school, which is part of the Lionheart Educational Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Kath Kelly and a board of trustees chaired by Anne Lamb. The school is known for its welcoming and caring environment, where staff prioritize the safety and happiness of pupils. High expectations for student conduct and attitudes are evident, with pupils demonstrating politeness and a strong work ethic in a calm and orderly setting.
The school offers a rich enrichment program, allowing pupils to engage in various activities such as museum visits, pantomime outings, and even bee-keeping. Extra-curricular options are plentiful, including a popular theatre club and a fish-keeping club. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities within the school community, such as serving on the school council or becoming sports and reading ambassadors. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and pride among students, as they see their contributions valued, exemplified by their efforts to raise funds for new playground equipment.
Parents and carers express high regard for the school, often highlighting the compassion and support staff provide to their children. Many parents feel reassured knowing their children are happy and thriving during their primary years, carrying positive memories and knowledge into the future.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that is tailored to the needs of its pupils, outlining the vocabulary, knowledge, and skills to be acquired at each stage. While the curriculum is largely effective, some areas are still being refined, and certain subjects are in the early stages of implementation. Mathematics instruction is particularly strong, with clear teaching methods and ample opportunities for practice. Teachers effectively recap prior learning to reinforce essential knowledge, using questioning techniques to gauge understanding.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some activities do not always facilitate effective learning of key knowledge, and the support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is inconsistent. While some teachers adapt their resources and teaching methods to meet these pupils' needs, this is not uniformly applied across all classes, leading to gaps in support.
Reading is a priority at Broom Leys School, with staff well-equipped to teach phonics and reading skills. A consistent approach to phonics instruction is evident, and assessment practices help identify pupils who may need additional support. The school’s library is well-resourced, providing numerous opportunities for pupils to engage with reading.
In the early years, children benefit from a nurturing environment that focuses on communication and language development. The curriculum is designed to build on children's existing knowledge and skills, creating an engaging atmosphere for exploration and learning.
The school is well-led, with high staff morale and a commitment to considering staff well-being and workload. Governors and trustees actively support and challenge school leaders, contributing to a positive school culture. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must ensure that all teachers consistently adapt their teaching to meet the needs of pupils with SEND and that the quality of curriculum delivery is uniformly high across all subjects. This will help all pupils achieve their full potential and ensure a comprehensive educational experience.