Dell Primary School, located in Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk, has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to a commendable Good. The inspection conducted on May 12 and 13, 2022, highlighted the effectiveness of the school's leadership and the quality of education provided to its pupils. The school has established a positive environment where high expectations for both conduct and learning are evident. Pupils express enjoyment in reading, supported by effective teaching methods and engaging initiatives like the 'reading race,' which incentivizes reading through rewards.
Attendance is encouraged through various incentives, including a weekly breakfast reward for consistent attendance. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with kindness and politeness being the norm. The school has successfully addressed bullying, with most pupils unable to recall instances of it occurring, and they feel confident in the staff's ability to resolve any issues that arise. The range of extracurricular activities available, such as archery and yoga, is appreciated by both pupils and parents, providing opportunities for diverse experiences beyond the classroom.
The curriculum at Dell Primary School places a strong emphasis on reading, particularly in the early years, where children receive a solid foundation. Staff are dedicated to ensuring that pupils make substantial progress from their starting points. The monitoring by school leaders informs ongoing staff training and curriculum development, ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to support pupils in becoming fluent and confident readers. However, while much of the curriculum is well-structured, some subjects lack clarity in their planning, which can lead to inconsistent instruction and hinder pupils' ability to articulate their learning effectively.
Assessment practices are well understood and utilized by leaders, with teachers employing assessments to tailor support for pupils. This includes immediate catch-up sessions for those who need it, ensuring that all pupils can keep pace with their learning. The support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is also a strong point, with teachers setting clear, measurable targets and providing dedicated assistance to help these pupils succeed.
The school has made notable strides in improving pupil behavior, attributed to clear policies and a system of rewards and consequences. Staff foster supportive relationships with pupils, which encourages respectful behavior among students. The personal development program is robust, offering pupils various responsibilities that empower them to contribute positively to the school community.
Parents and staff alike recognize the positive changes implemented by school leaders, who have effectively communicated information about the curriculum and school life. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with regular training ensuring that staff are vigilant in identifying and addressing any risks to pupils.
Despite the many strengths, the school acknowledges the need for clearer curriculum documentation to support teachers in delivering consistent and effective instruction across all subjects. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all curriculum plans are well-defined and that teachers receive the necessary training to implement them effectively. Overall, Dell Primary School is a happy and safe environment where pupils thrive academically and personally, reflecting the dedication of its leadership and staff.
