Leiston Primary School, located in Suffolk, has undergone an ungraded inspection on 25 and 26 April 2023. The overall judgement remains good, although evidence suggests that the school may not achieve the same rating if a graded inspection were conducted at this time. The inspectors recommend that the next inspection should be a graded one.
Pupils at Leiston Primary School are generally happy and enjoy their time at school. However, their academic achievements across various subjects do not meet their full potential. This is attributed to a curriculum that lacks consistent planning in each subject area, leaving students inadequately prepared for the next stages of their education. Despite this, pupils take pride in their contributions to the school community, particularly through their involvement in the learning council and local community events, such as reading at nursing homes and fundraising for charities. They appreciate the well-organized trips and visits that enhance their educational experience.
In terms of behavior, pupils demonstrate respect towards adults and peers, listening attentively and behaving well both in classrooms and during break times. They understand the importance of treating others kindly and report that any instances of potential bullying are swiftly addressed by staff. Pupils feel confident that there is always an adult available to discuss any concerns they may have.
The school leadership ensures that pupils experience a broad curriculum, with some subjects having well-defined curriculum plans that outline learning objectives from Reception to Year 6. Teachers effectively build on prior knowledge in these subjects, utilizing assessments to identify and address gaps in learning. However, in other subjects, the curriculum is less developed, leading to difficulties for pupils in making connections in their learning and securing the knowledge necessary for academic success.
Leaders have implemented a systematic phonics and spelling program from early years to Year 6, detailing the phonics knowledge pupils should acquire each term. While staff have received training, the implementation of this program is inconsistent, resulting in some pupils not receiving adequate practice to develop their reading fluency. Additional reading sessions are provided for those who struggle, but these are not yet as effective as they should be due to insufficient expectations from adults.
The reading curriculum has been developed, with adults modeling reading aloud effectively and selecting books that enhance pupils' reading experiences. Older pupils express enjoyment in reading and can discuss the books they have read confidently. Early years children receive well-planned opportunities to explore and learn, which helps them develop foundational skills in language and mathematics.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, identifying these needs early and employing effective strategies to support them in the classroom. In subjects where the curriculum is well-developed, adaptations are made to ensure all pupils can achieve.
The curriculum also supports pupils' personal development, exposing them to various cultures and religions through religious education and assemblies. Pupils learn about the importance of physical and mental health through activities like swimming and yoga. Staff feel supported in their roles, appreciating the consideration given to their workload and well-being by school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at Leiston Primary School are effective, with staff receiving regular training to recognize and address potential risks. Concerns about pupils are promptly reported and addressed, ensuring that vulnerable families receive necessary support. Overall, while the school has strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of phonics instruction and the clarity of curriculum plans in certain subjects.
