Laughton Junior and Infant School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on January 25 and 26, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The school emphasizes three core values: respect, reflect, and resilience, which are well understood by the pupils. Relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by mutual respect and care, contributing to a happy and safe atmosphere. Pupils report a strong understanding of bullying, noting that it is rare within the school.
The leadership team has high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils. The curriculum is described as interesting and balanced, with a variety of sports clubs available after school. This comprehensive support system helps pupils succeed academically and personally. Behaviour in lessons is generally calm and well-managed, with pupils adhering to the school’s behaviour policy and understanding the associated rewards and consequences. During break times, pupils engage positively with one another.
Pupils demonstrate a well-developed understanding of tolerance and diversity, appreciating the uniqueness of their peers. They express sentiments such as the school being generous and kind, highlighting the supportive community fostered within the school. Leadership roles are available to pupils, allowing older students to read to younger ones, which enhances their sense of responsibility and belonging. Parents also express appreciation for the support provided by school leaders.
The school has established a well-planned and ambitious curriculum, identifying key knowledge and vocabulary across most subjects. Teachers adapt the mathematics program to meet the diverse needs of pupils, resulting in good achievement levels. While teachers generally exhibit strong subject knowledge, there are instances where the choice of activities does not effectively facilitate learning, hindering some pupils from reaching their full potential.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with early years pupils learning phonics from the outset. Staff are well-trained and confident in teaching phonics, and pupils enjoy the structured approach to reading. The school promotes a love of reading, ensuring a diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction texts is available, which broadens pupils' knowledge and vocabulary.
In the early years, staff are dedicated to children's development, providing clear learning routines that engage pupils. However, there is a need for more precise knowledge identification in areas beyond English and mathematics to ensure comprehensive learning by the end of Reception. For pupils with special educational needs, the curriculum is adapted effectively, allowing them to access the same learning opportunities as their peers.
The personal development of pupils is a key focus, with a well-structured curriculum and assembly program that includes high-quality resources. Leaders celebrate important events and engage pupils in projects that raise awareness of disabilities and different cultures. The leadership team has a clear understanding of the school's effectiveness and systematically addresses areas for improvement, considering staff workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, ensuring pupils know who to approach if they have concerns. While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation in key stage one and the development of detailed plans in early years learning areas. Overall, Laughton Junior and Infant School provides a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
