Thrussington Church of England Primary School, located in Leicester, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted on December 6 and 7, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as personal development being rated as outstanding. The school is part of the Learn Academies Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The headteacher, Hannah Roddy, has been in her position since April 2020, and the school joined the trust in October 2023.
The school environment is described as welcoming and inclusive, with strong relationships among pupils and staff. Students express happiness and a sense of safety, indicating that they feel well cared for. The support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is particularly noted, with parents expressing high levels of satisfaction regarding the care their children receive. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and music, which are complemented by educational trips that enhance the curriculum. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, allowing them to contribute positively to the school community.
The quality of education is generally good, with high expectations for behavior and achievement. Most pupils perform well, especially in reading and mathematics, although the quality of written work varies across subjects. The curriculum is broad and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on reading. Staff are committed to fostering a love of reading, and pupils engage enthusiastically with texts. The teaching of early reading is effective, with children beginning to read shortly after starting in Reception. Regular assessments ensure that pupils who require additional support receive it promptly.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Some subjects lack fully developed assessment strategies, which can hinder teachers' ability to track pupils' progress effectively. Additionally, there are inconsistencies in expectations across mixed-age classes, leading to occasional lapses in focus among pupils during lessons. The school recognizes the need to enhance writing standards across all subjects and year groups, ensuring that pupils develop confidence in their writing skills.
The school promotes respect for diversity and encourages pupils to explore different cultures and faiths. Activities such as fundraising for local and international communities foster a sense of social responsibility among students. The personal, social, health, and economic education program is particularly effective, contributing to pupils' understanding of personal safety and well-being. The innovative forest schools curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to learn about teamwork and environmental stewardship.
Leadership at all levels is strong, with governors actively supporting the school's development. Staff feel valued and supported, with a focus on their well-being and professional growth. The school has a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement, and leaders are committed to building on these foundations.
Overall, Thrussington Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. The positive relationships among pupils and staff, along with the inclusive curriculum and strong leadership, contribute to the school's effectiveness. With ongoing efforts to address identified areas for improvement, the school is well-positioned to continue its development and support the needs of all its pupils.
