De Lacy Primary School, located in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an outstanding overall effectiveness rating. The inspection took place on March 12 and 13, 2024, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The headteacher, James Parkinson, leads the school, which is part of the Pontefract Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Julian Appleyard OBE and a board of trustees chaired by Phil Jones OBE.
The school is characterized by a positive and engaging environment where pupils are happy and eager to learn. Staff collaboration, supported by a robust trust network, ensures that all students achieve their potential. The curriculum is rich, ambitious, and well-structured, allowing pupils to develop a deep understanding of the subjects they study. This curriculum is complemented by a variety of trips and experiences that enhance learning and broaden pupils' horizons.
Pupils at De Lacy Primary School exhibit exemplary behavior and attitudes towards learning. They are polite, confident, and articulate, demonstrating a strong desire to engage with their education. Staff members foster positive behavior through praise and established routines, creating an atmosphere where pupils are motivated to learn and share their work with visitors.
The school has established strong connections with the local community, regularly inviting parents into the school. The ethos of widening horizons is evident, with parents noting that their children come home inspired and enthusiastic about their learning. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement, providing pupils with opportunities to develop leadership skills and learn about various careers through initiatives like Future Fridays.
The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and interconnected, allowing pupils to build knowledge across subjects. For instance, lessons on local history involving liquorice production are linked to science lessons about its medicinal uses. This integrated approach helps pupils make connections and understand the relevance of their learning. The school also supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive high-quality assistance to thrive academically.
Reading is prioritized, with a well-implemented phonics program that enables pupils to learn to read quickly and enjoyably. Staff are trained to deliver early reading instruction effectively, and pupils are excited about reading, often participating in initiatives that promote literacy. The early years staff focus on vocabulary development, modeling language use and encouraging full sentences, which contributes to children's language skills.
The school environment is characterized by exemplary behavior, with minimal disruption during lessons. High expectations and clear routines established by staff encourage pupils to persevere through challenges, fostering independence and mutual support among students. The emphasis on character development is woven throughout the curriculum, with pupils learning about British values and other cultures, promoting tolerance and respect.
Leadership at all levels is strong, with a shared vision for continuous improvement. Leaders take thoughtful actions to support staff and enhance the school's educational provision. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, De Lacy Primary School stands out for its commitment to providing an exceptional education, fostering both academic success and personal development in its pupils. The school is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity for a bright and positive future, making it a remarkable place for learning and growth.
