Ullesthorpe Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and a strong sense of community among its pupils. The school promotes the ethos of learning together, growing together, and shining forever, which resonates with the students who express pride in their school environment. Pupils feel welcomed and respected, acknowledging the importance of diversity and the value of differing opinions. This inclusive atmosphere prepares them well for life in modern Britain.
The enthusiasm for learning is evident among the students, who engage attentively in lessons and exhibit a strong work ethic. Their curiosity drives them to explore new concepts, contributing to a positive learning environment. The behavior of the majority of pupils is commendable, characterized by politeness and courtesy. While a small number of students occasionally require additional support to adhere to school rules, the leadership ensures that these individuals receive the necessary assistance, leading to improvements over time.
Extracurricular activities play a significant role in the school experience, with pupils actively participating in a variety of sports and arts programs. Opportunities for outdoor learning and collaborative trips with other schools foster friendships and broaden their social experiences. Parental feedback is largely positive, particularly regarding the support provided during the COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting the school’s dedication to maintaining educational standards during challenging times.
The curriculum is thoughtfully planned and sequenced, particularly in the early years, where clear expectations are set for what children should learn. In key stages one and two, the curriculum outlines specific learning objectives for each term, ensuring that pupils build on their prior knowledge systematically. However, some subjects are still in the process of developing their curriculum plans, and leaders are actively addressing these areas.
Reading is a strong focus at Ullesthorpe, with a well-structured phonics program that helps pupils develop fluency. Teachers are adept at identifying students who may be falling behind and provide timely interventions to support their progress. Older pupils express a love for reading, engaging with a diverse range of literature and authors, which enriches their educational experience.
Teachers are committed to making lessons engaging and relevant, carefully planning sequences that build on students' existing knowledge. While most teachers effectively assess pupil understanding during lessons, there are inconsistencies in how these assessments inform instructional adjustments. This has resulted in a small number of pupils not retaining information as well as they could.
The school demonstrates a strong understanding of the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate support to access the curriculum. Regular evaluations of this support help maintain its effectiveness, and the involvement of external professionals enhances the resources available to these students.
Bullying is reported to be rare, with most parents and staff affirming that pupils feel safe at school. However, some students may not fully grasp the concept of bullying, mistaking isolated incidents for bullying behavior. Leadership is aware of this and is working to clarify these definitions for all pupils.
Overall, the leadership team is well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement, with clear plans in place to address any challenges. The staff is united and enthusiastic, benefiting from collaboration with other schools within the trust. Governors play an active role in holding leaders accountable, ensuring that the school continues to thrive. The support from the multi-academy trust has been instrumental in enhancing leadership, curriculum development, and provisions for pupils with special educational needs. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to identify and address concerns promptly, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
