Laburnum Primary School

Overview

Laburnum Primary School fulfils the ‘expected standard’ across all inspection categories. Leaders have established a ‘well-sequenced curriculum’ and ‘clear oversight’ that supports steady pupil progress, particularly in early reading and mathematics. The school benefits from ‘respectful, trusting relationships’ with families and a ‘calm and focused atmosphere’ in lessons.

Strengths

• Pupils ‘make a secure start to their phonics learning’ and typically reach the expected standard in national tests by Year 6.
• Attendance has improved through a ‘systematic approach’ that tracks absence closely and engages families swiftly.
• Behaviour is managed effectively, with ‘minimal disruption’ allowing teachers to focus on teaching and pupils to concentrate.
• Staff provide ‘targeted support’ for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, checking effectiveness before and after interventions.
• The ‘trust’s playbook’ guides teachers in using ‘evidence-informed approaches’, helping pupils feel confident and work independently.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should strengthen how teachers help pupils ‘retain detailed knowledge’ in a few foundation subjects to support future learning.
• Leaders should expand opportunities for pupils to develop ‘confidence and independence in social interactions’, enabling them to converse well.
• Leaders should strengthen the transition between early years and Key Stage 1 by ensuring assessment ‘guides the teaching in Year 1 and builds on previously taught knowledge’.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an ‘open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility’ and concerns are actively identified and managed.