Days Lane Primary School, located in Sidcup, Kent, was inspected on 13 and 14 March 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership, and management, as well as early years provision, were all rated good. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in April 2014.
Pupils at Days Lane Primary School demonstrate enthusiasm for their learning and are motivated to achieve. The curriculum is designed to effectively develop their knowledge and skills, with leaders maintaining high expectations for all students. The school promotes inclusivity and teaches pupils about diversity and different cultures through carefully selected texts and cultural experiences, such as performances by a Chinese lion dancer and an African dance group.
Behaviour within the school is exemplary, with both staff and pupils sharing a consistent understanding of the school’s values. Incidents of bullying are addressed promptly, contributing to a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe and happy. The school encourages pupils to make a positive impact on their community through various leadership roles, such as peer mentors and sports leaders, which enhance the breaktime experiences of younger pupils.
Leaders have clearly identified the essential knowledge, skills, and vocabulary that pupils need to learn. Subject leaders ensure that learning builds on prior knowledge in a sequential manner. For instance, Year 6 pupils engage in detailed comparisons of primary and secondary sources in history, while early years staff support foundational mathematics through practical activities. However, recent changes to the curriculum have not yet been fully integrated across all subjects.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and present information clearly, using effective questioning to deepen pupils’ understanding. They are attentive to misconceptions and provide necessary support to help pupils stay on track. Reading is prioritized, with early reading instruction beginning promptly in the early years. Pupils receive daily phonics lessons, which foster confidence in their reading abilities. Regular assessments of phonics understanding allow leaders to provide additional support to those who need it.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating resilience and focus during lessons. Disruptions to learning are rare, and children in early years engage in independent activities for extended periods. Leaders effectively identify the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers when appropriate. Subject leaders collaborate with teachers to make thoughtful adaptations for these pupils.
Despite the overall positive findings, there are areas for improvement. Trustees need to enhance their understanding of the quality of education and the impact of recent curriculum changes on staff well-being. Additionally, some curriculum plans are not fully embedded, leading to gaps in pupils’ knowledge in certain subjects. Leaders must ensure that the curriculum is consistently followed across all subjects to solidify pupils’ understanding.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with comprehensive training provided to staff. They are well-informed about local risks and know how to support vulnerable pupils. The curriculum and assemblies teach pupils about safety, encouraging them to share any concerns they may have. Overall, Days Lane Primary School is a supportive and effective learning environment that fosters both academic and personal growth among its pupils.
