Cliff Lane Primary School in Ipswich, Suffolk, has recently undergone an inspection on 13 and 14 February 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school, led by headteacher Carrie Broom and part of Asset Education, has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as Requires Improvement. The inspection highlighted several strengths across various areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as Good.
Pupils at Cliff Lane Primary School are reported to be happy and engaged in their learning. They maintain positive relationships with staff, who are approachable and supportive. The school fosters an environment where pupils are eager to learn and behave well both in lessons and throughout the school. The school has high expectations for its students, encouraging them to achieve their best. Inclusivity is a key aspect of the school’s ethos, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of the diverse needs of pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school effectively identifies and addresses barriers to learning, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support.
The curriculum at Cliff Lane Primary School is ambitious and broad, designed to build knowledge over time. Teachers are committed to revisiting topics and assessing pupils' understanding, which helps reinforce learning. However, there are areas where this approach could be improved, particularly in a few foundation subjects where the revisiting of key knowledge is inconsistent. This inconsistency can hinder some pupils' progress in retaining essential information.
Reading is prioritized from the early years, with staff implementing a phonics program that effectively supports pupils in developing their reading skills. The school provides a rich selection of texts, encouraging a love of reading among students. Children in the early years benefit from well-structured routines and engaging activities that prepare them for future learning.
The school has established clear behavior expectations, which pupils understand and respond to positively. Staff training in behavior management has contributed to a positive school atmosphere. The school is also focused on improving attendance, working closely with families to ensure that pupils attend regularly.
Cliff Lane Primary School places a strong emphasis on preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. This includes teaching them about online safety and promoting healthy relationships. The personal, social, and health education curriculum covers a wide range of themes, helping pupils develop into kind and open-minded individuals.
Leadership at the school is characterized by a clear vision and a commitment to continuous improvement. Staff are passionate about their roles and value the professional development opportunities available to them. The governance structure, including the board of trustees, provides effective support and challenge, contributing to the school’s ongoing development.
The inspection concluded that while the school has made significant strides, there are areas for further improvement. Specifically, the school should ensure that all subjects are planned and taught in a way that allows pupils to revisit key content and knowledge, enhancing their long-term retention and understanding. Overall, Cliff Lane Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational environment that supports the growth and development of its pupils.
