Leighfield Primary School, located in Uppingham, Rutland, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on February 28 and 29, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Sarah Eaton, the school is part of the Discovery Schools Academies Trust Ltd, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Paul Stone and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Richard Bettsworth.
The school fosters an ambitious and nurturing environment where relationships between staff and pupils are warm and supportive. The curriculum is enriched with a variety of creative opportunities, ensuring high expectations for all students. This inclusive approach allows all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to achieve well. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating high levels of engagement and interest during lessons. They actively participate in discussions, confidently sharing their ideas and reflecting on their learning experiences.
Pupils express appreciation for their teachers, noting that they not only facilitate learning but also genuinely care for their well-being. The school provides additional support through an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) room, which pupils describe as a safe space where they can receive help. Furthermore, students take pride in participating in extracurricular activities and view their roles in initiatives like the eco-team as privileges, showcasing their commitment to environmental responsibility.
The school excels in its early years provision, where children receive a secure start in the Reception Year. The curriculum is ambitious, fostering independence and sustained focus among young learners. Resources are well-selected to promote exploration and play, and relationships between staff and children are nurturing. The reading culture at Leighfield is particularly strong, with staff trained to deliver an effective phonics program. The school promotes a love of reading through various events and provides access to a diverse range of high-quality texts.
Mathematics instruction follows a mastery approach, allowing pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning. This method ensures that all students, including those with SEND, face appropriate challenges. The curriculum is well-structured, with clear learning journeys across subjects, particularly in art and design, where the school has developed supportive resources for teachers.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In some foundation subjects, assessment processes are not fully developed, hindering teachers' ability to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge effectively. Leaders are encouraged to enhance these assessment processes to support pupils in retaining knowledge across the wider curriculum.
The school prioritizes personal, social, and health education, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. They engage in various enrichment opportunities that broaden their horizons and raise aspirations, such as aspirations week, which introduces students to diverse career paths. Pupils show a mature understanding of diversity and respect for different beliefs and relationships.
Staff members feel well-supported, with access to professional development opportunities and a focus on their well-being. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Leighfield Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for learning and personal growth.
