Coningsby St Michael’s Church of England Primary School, located in Lincolnshire, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on June 28 and 29, 2022. The school was rated as good across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This was the first inspection under the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
The school environment is characterized by polite and welcoming pupils who exhibit a strong enthusiasm for learning. Teachers maintain high expectations and foster positive relationships with students, creating a supportive atmosphere where older pupils look out for younger ones. The early years provision is particularly noted for the attention children receive from adults, contributing to a sense of safety and happiness among pupils.
A notable strength of the school is its support for service children. Leaders actively monitor these pupils and maintain communication with parents who may be stationed abroad, ensuring that they remain connected to their children's school experiences. Initiatives such as workshops for military children further enhance this support.
The school emphasizes teamwork and resilience through a well-planned outdoor curriculum, which includes activities in a designated garden area. This outdoor space is home to school goats, adding a unique element to the learning experience. Pupils are educated about bullying and feel confident in reporting any incidents, knowing that staff will address concerns promptly.
Leaders have made significant strides in enhancing the quality of education. Subject leaders are given time to ensure that the curriculum is well-planned and that teachers understand the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, and teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge, enabling them to present information clearly.
However, there are areas for improvement. While some teachers effectively assess pupils' understanding, this practice is not consistent across all subjects. As a result, some pupils may have gaps in their knowledge. Leaders are encouraged to establish a more uniform approach to assessment to ensure that all pupils have a solid understanding of the material.
The school employs a consistent approach to teaching reading, starting in Reception, which has proven effective in developing fluent readers. Teachers regularly assess reading abilities and provide timely interventions for those who struggle, fostering a love for reading among pupils.
In the early years, there is a strong focus on communication and personal development. Teachers model respect and politeness, preparing children well for their transition to key stage one. Behaviour throughout the school is calm, with staff providing support to pupils who need additional time to settle.
Pastoral support is robust, with designated safe spaces for pupils to discuss their feelings. A variety of clubs are available, catering for different interests and ensuring that all pupils have opportunities for engagement. Staff express pride in their work and feel that their well-being is considered by leaders.
Despite the positive aspects, some parents feel that communication regarding their children's progress could be improved. Leaders are encouraged to enhance their engagement with parents to keep them informed about the school's initiatives and their children's development. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
