Elliston Primary Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school The principal and vice principal have an exceptionally clear vision for the future. This strong vision is shared by all school staff and has brought about significant improvement since the school became an academy in 2015. Leaders know their school well.

Their impressive depth of knowledge is clearly reflected in the accuracy of their evaluation of the school as well as in the clear pathway forward identified in the school improvement plan. The quality of teaching and learning within the school is very strong in nearly all areas. Staff have high expectations and an unwavering belief that pupils can and should make excellent progress.
<...br/>Teachers and support staff meet at the end of each school day to plan the next day's learning. They are highly reflective and discuss the progress of each individual pupil, ensuring that learning overall very closely matches individual pupil's needs. Children very often start Nursery with skills and knowledge well below those of similar age.

Nearly all transfer to the Reception class where they make very good progress, particularly in personal and social development and mathematics. Last year, most Year 6 pupils reached standards expected nationally despite high levels of pupil mobility and low starting points. This represents outstanding progress over time.

Pupils are recognised as individuals and feel their opinions are listened to and valued. Their excellent behaviour reflects their feeling of pride at being a member of the school community. Parents and carers spoken with were unanimous in their support for the school.

They particularly value relationships with senior leaders. Governors are knowledgeable and use this knowledge to hold leaders to account. They work closely with the trust leaders, who offer high levels of support and challenge to the school leadership team.

Last year, children in the early years made less progress in writing than in other areas. Currently, children are on track to make much greater gains this year. A small number of pupils do not make as much progress as they could in developing their phonics skills.

Information about this school

Levels of deprivation within the school catchment area are high. The school has a higher than average level of mobility, with pupils often starting and leaving at times other than the start of the school year. The school meets the government's current floor standards which are the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment in English and mathematics by the end of Year 6.