Chestnut Lane School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school.

In the words of one staff member, 'This is a fantastic school and the children who attend here really do thrive.' Standards reached by pupils at the end of Year 2 in reading, writing and mathematics are very high compared to those reached by pupils in other schools. Children receive a good start to their school life in the Early Years Foundation Stage where they are taught well by a highly committed team.

Behaviour is exemplary throughout the school day. Pupils of all ages play and work together harmoniously. They are very friendly and eager to learn at all times.

Pupils have an excellent understanding of how to stay saf...e. All staff work really hard to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the pupils. Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the school's work.

They appreciate the excellent communication they enjoy with the school. The headteacher has considerable ambition for the school and drives a clear focus on improving already high standards. A high proportion of teaching is outstanding and it is never less than good.

This enables pupils to make quick and sustained progress in all subjects. As a result, all groups of pupils, regardless of their level of ability or special educational needs, are doing very well throughout the school. Teachers are skilled at planning interesting and challenging activities.

The curriculum provides numerous opportunities to enrich learning and this contributes to pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development extremely well. Learning support assistants are highly skilled and work closely with teachers in tight knit teaching teams, providing excellent support for the pupils with whom they work. Leadership and management at all levels, including governance, are outstanding and have a direct impact on the quality of teaching together with pupils' achievement.

Information about this school

Chestnut Lane is smaller than the average-sized primary school. Children in the Early Years Foundation Stage are taught in Nursery and two Reception classes. The proportion of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs supported at school action is below average.

The proportion of those supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is also below average. Only a very small number of pupils are supported through the pupil premium (extra government funding for pupils known to be eligible for free school meals, children looked after by local authorities and children of service families) which is below average. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic groups is below average.

The proportion of pupils for whom English is an additional language is also below average. The deputy headteacher is currently supporting a local primary school. An acting deputy headteacher has been appointed from the school's staff.

Also at this postcode