South Walney Infant and Nursery School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Leaders and governors have established a clear vision that makes South Walney Infant and Nursery School a 'safe, welcoming and happy place' for children to learn. Pupils conduct themselves well around school and in lessons. Teachers set clear expectations for pupils' behaviour and apply these consistently.

The curriculum that leaders and governors provide makes good use of the opportunities that exist in the local area and environment. Pupils learn about their local community while developing skills across a range of subjects. Leaders and teachers monitor pupils' progress rigorously.

They take effective action if they see that pupils are ...at risk of falling behind. Teachers plan lessons that routinely meet the needs of almost all pupils. Sometimes, the most able pupils do not make the progress that they could in mathematics because the work that they are given is not challenging enough.

Governors have a good understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses. However, they know that they need to ask more challenging questions about particular groups of pupils so that they can help leaders to improve outcomes even further. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve well.

The improvements to outcomes in 2017 have largely been maintained in 2018 because leaders have established a strong focus on the progress of all pupils across the school. Pupils develop their phonics skills well because : the quality of teaching is good. The majority of current Year 1 pupils reached the expected standard in the phonics screening check in 2018.

Support for pupils who have special educational needs (SEN) and/or disabilities, and for disadvantaged pupils, is highly effective. They make good progress towards their individual targets. Some attain similar standards to other pupils nationally and in school.

Children in the early years make good progress from their various starting points. The proportion of children reaching a good level of development has increased in 2018. Teachers have worked successfully to improve the early reading and writing skills of boys so that more are ready for Year 1.

Procedures for keeping pupils safe from harm are effective. Pupils say that they feel safe in school and parents and carers agree with this view. Staff are trained to be vigilant and know how to report concerns about pupils' welfare.

Information about this school

This is an average-sized infant and nursery school. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for free school meals is below average. Almost all pupils are of White British heritage.

The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is well below average. The proportion of pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities is well above average. Fewer pupils than average have a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan.