Lapal Primary School, located in Halesowen, West Midlands, underwent an inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The school has demonstrated exceptional quality in various areas, including education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, where it was rated as good.
The school environment is characterized by excellent pupil behavior, which fosters a conducive learning atmosphere. Students respect one another and actively participate in both classroom and extracurricular activities. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and staff are attentive to the emotional well-being of students, ensuring they feel safe and secure. Parents are highly supportive, contributing to high attendance rates and punctuality.
Academically, pupils excel in numerous subjects, particularly in reading and mathematics. This success is attributed to the high expectations set by school leaders and the ambitious curriculum that is effectively implemented. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities through various roles, such as junior leaders and sports leaders, which helps them develop a sense of ownership and engagement in their school community. Additionally, a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs and creative pursuits, are available, further enhancing student motivation and enjoyment of school life.
The leadership team, including the executive headteacher and senior staff, is noted for its effectiveness. They are reflective and research-informed, carefully considering the needs of pupils when designing the curriculum. The curriculum is well-structured and has a strong impact on student learning across subjects. As a result, pupils consistently make excellent progress and achieve high standards year after year.
The school excels in teaching reading through a structured phonics program that begins in Reception and continues as needed throughout early years and key stage one. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that all pupils receive targeted support. Once students have mastered phonics, they are introduced to a diverse selection of books, promoting a love for reading. The early years curriculum also provides a solid foundation in essential knowledge, preparing children for future learning.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards education, and the school sets clear expectations for behavior and learning, allowing for uninterrupted learning. The curriculum is well-resourced, and staff receive guidance to ensure effective teaching across all subjects. This structured approach enables pupils to make meaningful progress and engage in discussions about various topics, demonstrating their understanding and knowledge.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is exceptional, with a strong focus on well-being and character development. The school community is well-supported by the trust, governors, and leaders, which contributes to a positive working environment for staff. They appreciate the clarity in curriculum organization and the resources provided, which help manage their workload effectively.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and respond to concerns. The school teaches pupils about safe relationships and how to seek help if they feel uncomfortable or worried. Overall, Lapal Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the academic and personal development of its pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
