Wallace Fields Infant School and Nursery

Overview

The report describes a school where “ambition and determination for everyone to succeed leads to pupils getting to a flying start.” Inspectors found that a “sense of purpose permeates the school,” resulting in pupils who are “enthusiastic about learning” and “happy.” The inspection concluded that the school provides an outstanding education across all evaluated categories, including early years provision and leadership.

Strengths

• A “highly ambitious curriculum” ensures pupils’ knowledge develops over time, with staff carefully checking understanding and revisiting learning so it “sticks in pupils’ minds.”
• Pupils become “confident, fluent readers quickly” due to a “highly consistent approach to the teaching of reading” and effective phonics programmes.
• Staff have “high expectations” of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), using tailored support to ensure they “make excellent progress.”
• Pupils “behave exceptionally well,” demonstrating “respect” and kindness, supported by clear expectations and a culture where every pupil is treated as an individual.
• Leaders and governors share a “deep commitment to constantly strive for more,” with governors asking the right questions to help leaders refine the high quality of education.

Areas to improve

The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective,” noting that leaders and staff take their responsibilities seriously, carry out thorough checks, and know how to escalate concerns swiftly.