The Orchard Way Academy

Overview

Lane End Primary School remains judged as ‘good’, though inspectors note that a graded inspection might result in a lower rating. The school provides a ‘high level of care’ with strong relationships and effective early reading and mathematics teaching. However, inconsistencies in curriculum planning and assessment across other subjects require urgent attention.

Strengths

• Staff demonstrate ‘dedicated and passionate’ commitment to pupils’ well-being, fostering confidence and independence.
• Early reading is taught well, with staff quickly identifying gaps in phonic knowledge to support fluent readers.
• English and mathematics are taught effectively, with clear learning steps and regular checks on pupil understanding.
• Pupils feel safe, with staff responding appropriately to bullying and promoting a culture of cooperation and teamwork.
• SEND pupils access the same enrichment opportunities as their peers, supported by tailored plans and inclusive practices.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must ensure staff know exactly what to teach in foundation subjects, as current tasks often lack focus on key knowledge.
• Assessment processes in foundation subjects need review to provide teachers with clear insights into pupils’ understanding and retention.
• Subject leaders require better development to oversee curriculum progression, support colleagues, and monitor implementation effectively.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are ‘effective’, with a strong culture maintained through regular staff training and swift reporting of concerns.