Gilmorton Chandler Church of England Primary School, located in Lutterworth, Leicestershire, was inspected on January 14 and 15, 2020. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive learning environment and strong community values. Pupils express pride in their school, highlighting the friendly and caring atmosphere fostered by both staff and peers. They enjoy their learning experiences across various subjects and appreciate the support they receive from their teachers. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, encouraging students to treat others as they wish to be treated. This ethos is evident in their participation in charitable activities and collaborative play.
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, which contribute to pupils' sense of responsibility and community engagement. Events such as the grandparents’ gardening day enhance their understanding of community involvement. Pupils take on various leadership roles, such as house captains and eco-warriors, which further develop their personal skills and confidence. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, fostering a safe and supportive environment where bullying is rare. Pupils feel secure and are confident in approaching adults with any concerns.
In terms of academic performance, pupils generally achieve well, particularly in mathematics and science. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with staff ensuring that pupils learn essential knowledge in a logical sequence. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in reading fluency. Some pupils do not receive the necessary support to become confident readers, and the teaching of phonics lacks consistency. While most subjects are taught effectively, there is a need for better integration of writing skills across the curriculum to ensure high-quality writing in all subjects.
The early years provision is strong, with staff closely monitoring children's development and providing targeted support where needed. Children show enthusiasm for learning and engage actively in their activities. The school also prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support to thrive academically and socially.
Pupils' personal development is a key focus, with an emphasis on life skills and social awareness. They demonstrate positive attitudes and respect for diversity, contributing to a harmonious school environment. The leadership team is effective, with a commitment to continuous improvement and staff well-being. Training opportunities for staff are prioritized, and there is a collaborative approach to enhancing the curriculum.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders ensuring that pupils are taught how to stay safe, including online safety. Staff are well-trained to identify and address any concerns, and there is effective collaboration with external agencies when necessary. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the care and support their children receive at the school.
To enhance the quality of education further, the school needs to focus on improving the consistency of phonics instruction and ensuring that all staff have the necessary expertise to teach reading effectively. Additionally, teachers should ensure that vocabulary is clearly understood by pupils to enhance learning outcomes. Addressing these areas will help the school build on its strengths and continue to provide a high-quality education for all its pupils.
