Welford Sibbertoft and Sulby Endowed School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 25 November 2021. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel well cared for and supported. The positive atmosphere is reflected in the behavior of the students, who are polite and well-mannered. Staff members serve as positive role models, and both pupils and staff express pride in being part of this small school community. After returning from the national lockdowns, students realized how much they missed their teachers, highlighting the strong relationships within the school.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, enjoying their time with friends and supporting one another. The school has implemented a buddy system where older pupils take responsibility for younger ones, fostering a sense of community. Students are educated about bullying and online safety, equipping them with the knowledge to seek help if needed. The school has established a strong connection with parents and carers, who appreciate the support provided during the pandemic. Many parents praised the school’s efforts to assist families during challenging times.
The quality of education at Welford Sibbertoft and Sulby Endowed School is commendable. Leaders have carefully designed the curriculum to ensure that pupils build on their early learning experiences. Staff are adept at identifying gaps in students' knowledge and tailoring lessons to meet individual needs. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that new concepts are explained clearly and that pupils' mistakes are consistently addressed. The mathematics curriculum has been developed effectively, allowing pupils to gain a solid understanding of numbers and to articulate their thought processes confidently.
In subjects like history, older pupils are encouraged to make connections between different time periods, demonstrating their ability to remember historical facts in detail. Nevertheless, there is a need for more consistent encouragement for pupils to record their ideas independently. The reading program is well-implemented, with early phonics instruction leading to positive outcomes in reading. Staff conduct regular assessments to monitor pupils' progress and provide necessary support for those struggling with reading.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, and their parents agree with this assessment. The school ensures that educational visits and guest speakers enhance pupils' understanding of modern British life, promoting awareness of relationships, diversity, and inclusion. While attendance rates are generally good, some disadvantaged pupils do not attend as regularly as they should, which can hinder their learning.
Teachers appreciate the efforts made by school leaders to manage their workload and foster a collaborative environment. Staff feel supported by one another and by the leadership team. Safeguarding measures are effective, with all staff receiving training and updates on safeguarding protocols. Pupils report feeling safe at school, and the majority of parents share this sentiment. The school teaches students how to stay safe online and addresses issues like cyberbullying proactively.
To improve further, school leaders need to ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum and address pupils' errors more effectively. Additionally, they should work closely with parents to improve attendance among disadvantaged pupils, as this is crucial for closing knowledge gaps. Overall, Welford Sibbertoft and Sulby Endowed School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong sense of community and support.
