Holywell Primary School, located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, has recently undergone an inspection that evaluated its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on April 17 and 18, 2024, and the school has maintained a good standard of education since its last inspection, which was rated outstanding. The headteacher, Ed Petrie, leads the school, which operates as a single-academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Rob Seager.
The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Staff members are dedicated to fostering a culture of kindness and respect, which is reflected in the exemplary behavior of the students. Relationships between staff and pupils are strong, contributing to a supportive community. Parents have expressed their appreciation for the school, highlighting the compassion and care exhibited by the staff.
Holywell Primary School has high expectations for all its pupils, promoting a love of learning and encouraging resilience and confidence. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they are included in the school community. A variety of extracurricular activities and clubs are available, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents.
The curriculum at Holywell Primary School is designed to provide a rich variety of experiences, including a cultural capital journey for each year group. Pupils engage in discussions and debates on important issues, demonstrating their skills and contributing to charitable projects. The school’s values of inclusion and respect are evident in the way pupils interact with one another, preparing them well for life in modern Britain.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The curriculum is ambitious, but in some subjects, the learning opportunities do not always align with the intended knowledge and skills. This can lead to gaps in pupils' understanding and retention of key concepts. In the early years provision, activities sometimes fail to fully support the development of the skills and knowledge that teachers aim to impart.
Teachers are proactive in recapping previous learning and assessing pupils' understanding, which helps identify areas where further support is needed. The school prioritizes reading, with younger pupils receiving daily phonics lessons from well-trained staff. This focus on literacy fosters a love of reading, with pupils engaging in reading activities with peers and volunteers.
Leadership at Holywell Primary School is strong, with staff committed to continuous improvement. Governors understand their roles and effectively support the school’s mission. Staff members feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive work environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection highlighted the need for the school to enhance its curriculum further, particularly in ensuring that all subjects provide purposeful learning opportunities that align with the ambitious goals set for pupils.
Overall, Holywell Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a supportive community, and preparing pupils for their future educational journeys. The school’s strengths in behavior, personal development, and leadership are commendable, while the areas for improvement present opportunities for growth and enhancement of the educational experience for all students.
