Street Lane Primary School, located in Denby, Ripley, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 28, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils express a strong sense of belonging and safety. They appreciate the school's values, which emphasize respect, kindness, resilience, honesty, and ambition. Pupils take pride in earning badges that reflect their adherence to these values, reinforcing a culture of recognition and encouragement.
The school community, including parents and carers, reports a low incidence of bullying, with pupils feeling confident that any issues would be addressed promptly by staff. The high expectations set for all pupils ensure that everyone has access to a curriculum tailored to meet their individual needs. Opportunities for leadership are available, with pupils participating as well-being ambassadors and members of the school council, contributing to initiatives that promote kindness and environmental awareness.
The quality of education at Street Lane Primary School is commendable, with leaders and staff dedicated to enhancing the curriculum. The curriculum is designed to cater to the diverse needs of pupils, particularly in mixed-age classes. Most subjects are well-structured, allowing teachers to effectively communicate learning objectives and build on prior knowledge. However, there are areas where further development is needed to deepen pupils' understanding over time.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, facilitating clear explanations of new concepts. Pupils engage actively in lessons and articulate their learning effectively. For instance, they confidently discuss algorithms in computing, showcasing their grasp of complex ideas. In mathematics, the curriculum is aligned with pupils' needs, focusing on number comprehension and problem-solving skills. Early years pupils exhibit enthusiasm for learning numbers, indicating a solid foundation in mathematical concepts.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with pupils expressing enjoyment in reading activities. The consistent approach to phonics instruction is evident, with staff well-trained and maintaining high expectations. Children quickly adapt to phonics routines and eagerly demonstrate their knowledge. However, there are instances where support for struggling readers is not provided swiftly enough, leading to challenges in fluency and comprehension.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Staff utilize resources efficiently to identify needs and provide appropriate assistance, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Beyond the academic curriculum, the school offers enriching experiences through trips and extracurricular activities, such as archery and handbell lessons. Strong community ties are evident, with parents actively participating in school events and activities.
Governance is robust, with governors maintaining regular communication with school leaders to stay informed about developments. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that senior leaders prioritize well-being.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff fostering trusting relationships with pupils and families. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and staff are trained to recognize and respond to potential risks.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require more progressive curriculum planning to ensure all pupils build on their knowledge effectively. Additionally, leaders must enhance support for pupils struggling with reading to ensure they receive timely assistance and appropriate resources.
Overall, Street Lane Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a supportive and engaging environment for all pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of the school community is evident in the school's practices and ethos.
