Davies Lane Primary School, located in Leytonstone, London, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted on June 18 and 19, 2024, and has been rated as outstanding in all areas. The school is led by executive principal Jason Cook and is part of the Arbor Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Maureen Okoye and a board of trustees chaired by Marcia Douet. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, although the school was previously judged outstanding before becoming an academy.
The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel secure and valued. Staff members have high expectations for all students, and the curriculum is ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils engage in a broad range of subjects aligned with national expectations and demonstrate high levels of achievement, particularly in national assessments.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, starting from early years where children learn cooperation and responsibility. The school emphasizes kindness and independence, and pupils consistently exhibit these qualities. Strong relationships between teachers and pupils foster a supportive atmosphere, making bullying rare. Parents and carers express overwhelming satisfaction with the support their children receive.
Davies Lane Primary School offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including eco-warriors, contemporary dance, and various sports clubs. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as playground advocates and learning ambassadors, which enhances their personal development.
The leadership team is committed to providing exceptional experiences for pupils. Staff members are experts in curriculum delivery and are provided with numerous professional development opportunities. Leaders prioritize staff workload and well-being, resulting in high morale and a strong team spirit.
The curriculum is meticulously designed, outlining the knowledge pupils will acquire and sequencing it logically. This approach enables pupils to make meaningful connections with previously learned content. Rigorous assessment practices help identify and address any learning gaps, ensuring pupils build extensive knowledge as they progress. From early years, there is a strong focus on communication and language development, with a phonics program that supports reading confidence.
The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and ensures that activities are adapted to meet their needs. Those in the specially resourced provision receive tailored support to achieve their individual goals. The impact of additional support is closely monitored, leading to positive outcomes for these pupils.
Pupils exhibit exceptional behaviour both in and out of lessons, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. They learn to respect differences and appreciate the rewards system that recognizes positive behaviour. The personal, social, and health education curriculum equips pupils with a solid understanding of healthy relationships and online safety.
Davies Lane Primary School provides numerous opportunities for character development through charity work and various clubs. Educational visits further enrich the curriculum, enhancing pupils' learning experiences. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Overall, Davies Lane Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a nurturing and high-achieving community for its pupils.
