Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands, located in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 20th and 21st of March 2024, and the school is led by Principal Donna Burnett as part of the Outwood Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Lee Wilson and a board of trustees chaired by David Earnshaw. The school has established a strong leadership team that has implemented an ambitious curriculum aimed at enhancing the educational experience for all pupils.
The quality of education at Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands is rated as good, with particular strengths noted in early years provision, which has been deemed outstanding. Children in the early years are exceptionally well prepared for their transition to Year 1, demonstrating a deep understanding of concepts such as the life cycle of a butterfly and the growth of seeds. However, older pupils have not yet fully benefited from the new curriculum, which is reflected in their lower outcomes. Despite this, the current educational quality is effectively preparing pupils for their future learning.
Behaviour and attitudes within the school are also rated as good. Pupils are aware of the expectations set by the leadership team and are generally rising to these expectations. The school promotes a culture of safety, respect, and responsibility, which is consistently upheld by staff. While a small number of pupils may struggle with these expectations, well-trained staff provide the necessary support to help them improve their behaviour.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to develop their character and citizenship. Initiatives such as reading ambassadors and play leaders enhance the school environment and encourage engagement among pupils. The variety of enrichment clubs available allows students to explore their interests, contributing to a happy and inclusive school atmosphere.
While the school has made significant strides in establishing a robust curriculum, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, pupils struggle to connect new learning with prior knowledge, which can hinder their retention of information. The school is encouraged to provide additional support to staff to help pupils make these connections more effectively. Furthermore, pupils' understanding and appreciation of diversity are not yet well developed, indicating a need for enhanced education on this topic to prepare them for the diverse world they live in.
Governance at the school is strong, with trustees demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school's operations and ensuring that leadership actions positively impact pupils. The trust provides effective support and professional development for staff, contributing to the overall quality of education. Staff well-being is prioritized, and they express pride in their work and the difference they make in pupils' lives.
The safeguarding arrangements at Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has made significant progress since its conversion to an academy in January 2021, following a previous inadequate inspection of its predecessor school. The current inspection reflects the positive changes implemented by the leadership team and the commitment to continuous improvement in the educational experience provided to pupils. Overall, Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands is on a promising path, with a strong foundation for future success.
