Woolden Hill Primary School, located in Anstey, Leicester, has undergone a recent inspection that has highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 26 and 27, 2019, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where both pupils and staff express happiness. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and a sense of community, treating each other with kindness and respect. They feel safe and supported, knowing that there are trusted adults available to talk to if needed. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff respond promptly to resolve the issues.
The leadership team at Woolden Hill Primary School has high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that they achieve well, particularly in reading. The curriculum is designed to make learning enjoyable, and pupils take pride in their work. Parents and carers have expressed appreciation for the dedication of the staff, describing them as caring and enthusiastic. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including judo, cookery classes, and a music club, which are well-received by the pupils.
The school has made significant strides in developing its curriculum, fostering a strong sense of teamwork among staff, and maintaining high morale. Leaders have meticulously planned how subjects should be taught, allowing pupils to build their knowledge and skills progressively. The mathematics curriculum, in particular, is well-structured, enabling pupils to develop essential skills effectively. However, some subjects, such as music and French, require further development to ensure that pupils retain the knowledge and skills learned.
Reading is a priority at Woolden Hill, with new phonics teaching approaches introduced to enhance early reading skills. Pupils enjoy reading and are enthusiastic about the books available to them, often sharing their reading experiences with family members. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident, as pupils listen attentively and strive to do their best. Nonetheless, there are instances where teachers may not set sufficiently ambitious expectations for all pupils, leading to some not being challenged enough.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, breaking down learning into manageable steps to help them achieve alongside their peers. In the early years, children quickly adapt to routines and engage in a variety of stimulating activities, developing their vocabulary and communication skills. Staff foster positive behavior and relationships, preparing children well for their transition to Year 1.
Woolden Hill Primary School places a strong emphasis on personal development, providing pupils with opportunities to take on responsibilities and develop a good understanding of British values. The school has successfully improved attendance through collaboration with parents, ensuring that pupils attend regularly.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with thorough checks on staff suitability and ongoing training to keep staff informed about safeguarding practices. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, and leaders maintain detailed records of any concerns raised, providing necessary support with sensitivity.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Leaders and teachers need to ensure that learning is planned effectively across all subjects, enabling pupils to achieve consistently well. Additionally, it is essential for teachers to provide sufficiently challenging work to all pupils, adapting their teaching to meet individual needs and ensuring that all pupils can reach their full potential.
