Langney Primary Academy, located in Eastbourne, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2022. The school fosters a warm and positive atmosphere where pupils thrive and engage actively in their learning. The curriculum is designed to extend beyond everyday experiences, sparking a strong interest in various subjects and activities. Pupils appreciate the diverse range of clubs available, from sports to community projects, which contribute to their overall development and enjoyment of school life. The school emphasizes individual value and support, ensuring that every pupil feels recognized and encouraged.
Leadership at Langney Primary Academy is characterized by high aspirations for all students. The school implements various initiatives, such as the Funky Friday assembly, to reward pupils for embodying the school’s values. This approach reinforces expectations for behavior and learning, resulting in a calm and productive environment. Staff are proactive in addressing any signs of bullying, fostering a culture where pupils feel safe and supported. Parental support is strong, with many expressing that the school serves as a community extension of their families.
The school excels in creating an inclusive environment, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with careful consideration given to the content taught. In subjects like mathematics, leaders have effectively sequenced learning to build on prior knowledge from early years to Year 6. The integration of local community links enhances the curriculum, making learning more relevant and engaging for pupils. While some foundation subjects have broad skill goals, there is a recognized need to identify specific knowledge that pupils should acquire to demonstrate these skills effectively.
Reading instruction is a priority, with a structured approach established from the early years. Teachers are well-equipped to teach phonics and utilize assessments to identify pupils needing additional support. The school is actively monitoring the progress of these pupils to ensure they receive the necessary assistance. In the early years foundation stage, positive interactions between adults and children promote the development of communication and language skills, encouraging children to embrace new challenges.
The personal, social, and health education program is thoughtfully sequenced, ensuring that pupils receive age-appropriate knowledge on critical topics such as internet safety and healthy relationships. This curriculum helps pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of safety and well-being, aligning with the school’s motto of promoting an active body and healthy mind. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as Well-being Warriors and school council representatives, empower pupils to take responsibility and have their voices heard.
Staff at Langney Primary Academy express pride in their roles and appreciate the support provided by leaders to manage their workload and well-being. The commitment to staff development is evident, with leaders offering guidance to ensure lessons are accessible and challenging. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with strong relationships established between staff, pupils, and families. Pupils feel confident discussing concerns with trusted adults, and staff are diligent in addressing any issues that arise.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there is a need for improvement in clearly defining the precise knowledge required for pupils to meet their ambitious objectives in some foundation subjects. This will enhance assessment practices and provide a clearer picture of pupils’ understanding and progress. Overall, Langney Primary Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, fostering a strong sense of community and commitment to excellence.