St Laurence CofE Primary School in Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting significant improvements since its previous evaluation. The school is characterized by a joyful atmosphere where pupils express their enjoyment of learning and feel safe. They appreciate the supportive environment provided by staff, who are readily available to address any concerns. High expectations are set for pupils across most subjects, fostering a culture of hard work and achievement. Pupils take pride in their accomplishments and enjoy participating in school activities, such as assemblies where achievements are celebrated.
The school promotes respectful behavior among pupils, who are generally polite and well-behaved. Incidents of poor behavior are infrequent, and bullying is not tolerated, with staff responding promptly to any issues that arise. The school fosters an inclusive environment, encouraging acceptance of diversity among pupils, including those from different faiths. Parents and carers have expressed overwhelming positivity about the school, highlighting its family-like atmosphere and the dedication of the staff.
In terms of educational quality, the school has made strides in refining its curriculum. Leaders have developed an ambitious curriculum designed to build pupils' knowledge progressively. Many pupils demonstrate retention of key historical facts and concepts, such as the Great Fire of London and its historical context. In music, pupils are able to create remixes, showcasing their understanding of sound. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects like art and modern foreign languages, where the curriculum planning needs to be more precise to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly defined and sequenced.
Reading is a strong focus at St Laurence, with a structured approach to phonics that begins in Reception. Pupils receive daily phonics sessions, which help them develop their reading skills effectively. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, allowing pupils to build their understanding systematically. Pupils enjoy mathematics and are able to articulate mathematical concepts confidently.
The early years provision is robust, emphasizing communication and language development. The stimulating classroom environment encourages children to engage with their learning actively. Staff ask thought-provoking questions that deepen understanding and connect learning experiences across different stages of education.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a priority, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Staff are proactive in identifying needs and collaborating with external agencies to provide necessary support.
Pupils' personal development is well-promoted, with an understanding of healthy eating and British values. They demonstrate respect for different faiths, although they sometimes struggle to articulate what makes them unique. The leadership team, including governors and representatives from the multi-academy trust, is well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They provide ongoing training for staff and prioritize their well-being.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance. Leaders ensure that staff are well-trained and that pupils understand how to keep themselves safe, including online safety. The school has established thorough record-keeping and communication with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are still areas that require attention, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned and sequenced across all subjects. Leaders are already taking steps to address these issues, indicating a commitment to continuous improvement. Overall, St Laurence CofE Primary School is a thriving educational environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils.