Lytchett Matravers Primary School, located in Poole, Dorset, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on June 20 and 21, 2023, and evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good.
The school is characterized by a positive and secure environment where relationships among pupils, staff, and parents are warm and welcoming. Pupils express pride in their school and appreciate the nurturing ethos that allows them to discuss their worries with trusted adults. The school has implemented a behavior policy that encourages good conduct, and pupils demonstrate respect and consideration for one another. They engage well in class and during social times, listening to each other's views and helping to create a supportive atmosphere.
Lytchett Matravers Primary School offers a high-quality curriculum that extends beyond academics, with a strong emphasis on sports and extracurricular activities. Pupils enjoy participating in various sports competitions and clubs, which include eco-club, chess, choir, and sewing. The school also provides opportunities for older pupils to enhance their drama and musical skills through productions.
The leadership team has established a culture of aspiration and has focused on improving attendance, which had declined during the national lockdowns. Their efforts have resulted in attendance rates that exceed national averages, including for disadvantaged pupils. The school has a strong team of middle leaders who are aware of the curriculum's strengths and weaknesses, and staff feel their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Leaders have taken swift action to address areas of concern, particularly in reading, where previous outcomes were disappointing. They have retrained staff in effective reading instruction, ensuring consistency in teaching methods and vocabulary. This has led to significant improvements in pupils' reading skills, with timely support for those who struggle.
The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are proactive in identifying these pupils and adapting provisions to meet their needs. The curriculum is well-structured, with clear plans outlining the knowledge pupils will acquire and the sequence of learning.
While the school excels in many areas, there are still opportunities for improvement. In some subjects, teachers' expectations do not align with the high ambitions of the curriculum, resulting in pupils not learning as much as they could. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that expectations are consistently high across all subjects.
The personal development curriculum is well-designed and complements academic learning, with planned trips and visitors that enhance pupils' knowledge. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of equality and respect for diversity, and they are educated on online safety.
The trust overseeing the school provides valuable support, ensuring the curriculum is well-planned and sequenced. Governors appreciate the trust's contributions and share a common vision for the school's future.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of vigilance established by leaders. Staff are trained to handle disclosures sensitively and work closely with external agencies to support families in need. Overall, Lytchett Matravers Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while striving for continuous improvement.
