Lingfield Primary School, located in Middlesbrough, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 24 and 25, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with both staff and pupils expressing pride in their school environment. Parents appreciate the high level of care and support provided by the staff, contributing to a safe atmosphere where pupils feel secure. The school has established effective measures to address bullying, with pupils reporting that such incidents are rare and that their concerns are taken seriously by the staff.
Leadership at Lingfield Primary is characterized by high expectations for all pupils. The school leaders are dedicated to ensuring that these expectations are met, resulting in a positive learning experience where pupils find learning enjoyable. Teachers provide substantial support, helping pupils to improve their work and maintain good behavior. The motivation to earn merit certificates and star awards encourages pupils to engage actively in their learning, with minimal disruption due to poor behavior.
The curriculum at Lingfield Primary is enhanced through various visits and guest speakers, providing pupils with enriching experiences. For instance, Year 6 pupils recently participated in a residential trip to Cumbria, focusing on team-building and problem-solving skills. Pupils also take on special roles within the school, such as being members of the school council or sports crew, and they have access to a variety of after-school clubs, with sports activities being particularly popular.
The school has implemented a new approach to teaching early reading, with all staff trained to deliver a phonics program that begins in Nursery. This program ensures that children start learning to read as soon as they enter Reception, with no time wasted. As pupils progress, they learn more complex sounds, supported by new reading materials that align with their learning. Regular checks are conducted to identify any gaps in phonics knowledge, allowing for timely interventions.
Pupils demonstrate a love for reading, supported by cozy reading corners in classrooms and incentives for regular reading at home. The school has established strong connections with the local library and a nearby bookshop, encouraging parental involvement through initiatives like a playground book exchange.
While the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils struggle to retain knowledge in subjects like history, indicating a need for more consistent checks on learning across all subjects. Pupils with special educational needs receive effective support, with professionals providing guidance to ensure they can learn alongside their peers.
The school promotes equality and diversity through its curriculum, exposing pupils to diverse cultures and historical figures. Leaders regularly review the effectiveness of their strategies and seek to enhance staff well-being by reducing workload.
Safeguarding measures at Lingfield Primary are robust, with all necessary pre-employment checks conducted. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding protocols, ensuring that pupils are kept safe. The curriculum also includes lessons on safety, covering topics such as online risks and pedestrian safety.
In summary, Lingfield Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience, characterized by a supportive community, effective leadership, and a commitment to high standards in teaching and learning. However, there is a need to enhance the assessment of knowledge retention in certain subjects to ensure all pupils can build on their learning effectively.
