Lawley Village Academy is recognized as a good school, providing a calm, safe, and welcoming environment for its students. The leadership team, including the newly appointed headteacher and deputy, has effectively built upon the school's existing strengths, maintaining high expectations for both staff and pupils. The school emphasizes clear rules and behavior expectations, contributing to a positive atmosphere where bullying is rare. Staff are proactive in teaching students how to recognize and address bullying should it occur.
The curriculum at Lawley Village Academy is broad and engaging, with a strong focus on reading. The school employs a structured phonics program that begins in Reception and continues through Key Stage 1, ensuring that all pupils develop strong reading skills. The availability of a wide range of books encourages students to explore their imaginations and expand their knowledge. In addition to core subjects, the school offers various extracurricular activities and educational trips that enhance learning and foster a sense of responsibility among students.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in school governance through committees that allow them to voice their opinions and contribute to school improvements. This involvement helps students develop a sense of maturity and responsibility. The supportive teamwork among staff is evident, with a shared commitment to what is best for the pupils. High expectations for behavior are met with positive responses from students, who attend regularly and present themselves well in their uniforms.
The school has a strong focus on reading, with adults reading aloud to students and providing opportunities for independent reading. This approach, combined with author visits and other reading-related activities, fosters a love of literature among pupils. The academy trust's 11-before-11 program ensures that all students engage in a variety of experiences, further enriching their education.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The mathematics curriculum is well-planned but not always implemented effectively. Some teaching methods and resources do not align perfectly with the learning objectives, which can hinder student understanding. Leaders are aware of this and are working to refine the curriculum and its delivery to enhance student outcomes.
Assessment practices in some foundation subjects are still being developed. Although leaders have identified key knowledge for pupils to acquire, the methods for checking retention and understanding could be more focused and efficient. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students can access the full curriculum.
The safeguarding arrangements at Lawley Village Academy are effective, with established systems for identifying and responding to concerns. Staff receive regular updates on safeguarding practices, and pupils are educated about safe relationships and risk management. The school maintains rigorous checks on staff to ensure a safe environment for all students.
Overall, Lawley Village Academy is a good school that provides quality education and care for its pupils. The commitment of the leadership team, staff, and parents contributes to a positive learning environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in the implementation of the mathematics curriculum and assessment practices, the school is well-positioned to continue its development and support the needs of its students.
