Wellington Lions Primary Academy, located in Tidworth, Wiltshire, underwent an inspection on July 3 and 4, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Wellington Lions are encouraged to embody the school values, particularly curiosity. The leadership team fosters an inquisitive environment, ensuring that new students, who often join at various times throughout the year, are welcomed and their needs understood. Recent years have seen an increase in behavioral expectations, and while most pupils respond positively, there are occasional instances where behavior does not meet these expectations. In lessons, pupils demonstrate focus and engagement, with younger children in Reception transitioning smoothly between structured learning and play. Pupil ambassadors play a role in helping peers navigate social conflicts, and reports of bullying are rare, with staff addressing any issues promptly.
The school promotes inclusivity by involving all pupils in discussions on significant topics, such as through the school council's recent deliberations on inclusivity. A variety of extracurricular clubs, including rugby, choir, and a mini-police initiative, are available, with high participation rates. However, some pupils and parents have expressed a desire for more trips and experiences outside the school environment.
Wellington Lions serves a diverse and changing population, particularly due to its location in a military town. The leadership has developed a well-structured and ambitious curriculum that spans from Reception to Year 6, ensuring it is inclusive and meets the needs of all pupils. Each subject is carefully mapped, and external expertise is utilized for staff development, enhancing teachers' subject knowledge. Although some aspects of the curriculum are newly implemented, such as English, there is a strong emphasis on reading, with pupils exposed to a wide range of texts.
Subject leaders work across multiple schools, which limits their ability to monitor the implementation of the curriculum effectively. Consequently, there are areas where they lack a deep understanding of the curriculum's effectiveness. Leaders are taking steps to support subject leaders in this regard. While the improved curriculum has not yet reflected in published outcomes, particularly in reading and mathematics at key stage two, there are indications that pupils are retaining their learning over time.
In Reception, the curriculum is designed to prepare children for formal learning in key stage one, with teachers facilitating high-quality interactions that enhance language skills. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can engage with the curriculum effectively.
The school has established a robust reading program, starting in Reception, where children learn letters and sounds promptly. Leaders closely monitor pupils' progress in reading, implementing interventions for those who need additional support to catch up with their peers.
Pupils benefit from a comprehensive personal, social, and health education curriculum, addressing relevant issues in a timely manner. They are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school, contributing positively to the school community. While pupils understand the school values, there is less clarity regarding fundamental British values.
Leaders have prioritized developing a curriculum that is relevant to the needs of Wellington Lions pupils, investing in professional development for staff. The governing body and trust demonstrate a strong understanding of the school's priorities and support leaders in their efforts for improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to identify and address concerns promptly. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with any worries.
To further improve, leaders need to enhance the monitoring of curriculum impact in certain subjects and address communication with parents to build greater confidence in the school community.
