Kingsleigh Primary School, located in Kinson, Bournemouth, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on November 14 and 15, 2023. The overall judgement of the school remains good, although evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating if conducted at this time. The headteacher, James Lumber, leads the school, which operates as a single-academy trust overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Rachel Cornish.
The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming community where pupils express happiness and pride in attending. They feel cared for by the staff, who foster positive relationships and address any issues, including bullying, promptly. The school’s values of respect, aspiration, and belonging are evident in daily activities, and pupils appreciate the opportunities to celebrate achievements.
In terms of academic performance, Kingsleigh Primary School offers an ambitious curriculum in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils engaging enthusiastically with a diverse range of books. However, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of learning in the wider curriculum, where pupils do not perform as well.
Pupils have access to various extracurricular activities, including a school choir and sports clubs, which help them develop their talents and interests. Older students take on leadership roles, supporting younger peers as sports ambassadors and representatives on the school council.
The curriculum in core subjects is well-structured, with teachers presenting information clearly and using appropriate activities to reinforce learning. Early years education is particularly strong, with children learning to read as soon as they enter Reception. The school employs a rigorous approach to early reading, ensuring that struggling pupils receive timely support. Phonics instruction is effective, and pupils enjoy the routines associated with the school’s chosen phonics program.
Despite the strengths in core subjects, the wider curriculum lacks precise design and implementation. The school has not clearly identified the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire over time, which affects their preparedness for future learning stages. This gap in the curriculum means that pupils may not develop the necessary subject-specific skills as they progress.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with teachers adapting learning to meet their needs. The school provides effective individual support and has qualified staff running focused provisions, including outdoor learning experiences.
Behavior at the school is generally good, although a small minority of pupils do not meet the high expectations set by leaders. The school actively works to support these pupils, and initiatives involving the student council have positively impacted behavior, contributing to a calm and orderly environment.
The school prioritizes the wider development of pupils, ensuring that all have access to clubs and activities. Strong community links foster a sense of social responsibility among pupils, who engage in activities like litter picking and visiting local care homes. They are educated on online safety and mental health, with opportunities for discussion and debate.
Leadership at Kingsleigh Primary School is evolving, with reflective leaders creating a strong team to drive necessary improvements. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school must focus on refining the design and implementation of the wider curriculum and enhancing assessment practices to ensure that all pupils learn effectively and are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
