Lionwood Infant and Nursery School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school The difference that the staff in this school make to the lives of the pupils is remarkable. The executive headteacher's inspirational leadership has created a culture of high ambition. As a result, adults believe there are no barriers too great for the pupils to overcome.

Leaders and managers have a highly detailed understanding of the quality of teaching, learning and assessment. They have a relentless focus on ensuring that the quality of teaching is never less than good and often it is better. Pupils are very well prepared for entry to the junior school because they make rapid progress from individual starting points that are often very... low.

Pupils' personal development and welfare are exceptionally well provided for. As a consequence, they have extremely mature and positive attitudes to learning. The outstanding early years provision sets the tone for high-quality, creative and memorable learning that continues into Years 1 and 2.

Staff have an excellent understanding of how pupils learn and what works best to help them achieve highly. The consistent application of this understanding ensures that pupils make at least good, and often better progress. All groups of pupils achieve very well.

This is because teachers skilfully plan learning to interest and challenge individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Pupils' achievements in reading, writing and mathematics are tracked thoroughly and effectively. Leaders and managers ensure that children are very safe and are central to their work.

The arrangements to safeguard them fully meet requirements and are well thought through. The challenge from the governing body makes a significant contribution to the work of the senior leadership team.

Information about this school

In September 2014, the school federated with Lionwood Junior School.

The schools share the same executive headteacher, senior leadership team and governing body. There are 11 classes, including two Nursery classes. The school is part of the Norfolk Better to Best programme, which supports school improvement.

The executive headteacher is a local leader of education and currently supports a local junior school. Approximately one in five pupils are deemed to have special educational needs or disability, which is above the national average. Approximately 35% of pupils are known to be entitled to the pupil premium, which is higher than the national average of 26%.