Southcott Lower School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. Pupils make good progress in reading, writing and mathematics.

Some pupils make outstanding progress in reading. Children make outstanding progress in the Nursery and Reception classes as a result of teaching which is frequently outstanding and never less than good. Teaching in the other year groups is typically good.

Teachers have a good understanding of pupils' learning needs, and usually match work well to their differing ability levels. Very positive relationships between pupils and teachers underpin the good teaching and achievement, and help pupils to feel safe. Pupils have very good attitudes to learning and are proud of their sch...ool.

They behave well in lessons, try their best and work very effectively and supportively with each other. The headteacher has successfully engaged all staff and a high proportion of parents in a shared ambition for every pupil to achieve their very best, both academically and personally. This partnership makes a significant contribution to supporting the good achievement of pupils.

Governors have a good understanding of the school's strengths and further areas for development. It is not yet an outstanding school because : In a small number of lessons work is not set at the right level of difficulty for all pupils, so some make slower progress. Teachers do not always make sure that pupils use the targets set to improve their work.

Pupils do not have enough planned opportunities to develop their writing skills in different subjects. The process of school development planning is not fully effective. It does not focus sharply enough on pupils' achievement.

Not all governors have a detailed understanding of how to interpret information about the performance of staff and pupils.

Information about this school

The school is larger than the average-sized primary school. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is below average.

The proportion supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is also below average. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic heritages is much lower than average, as is the proportion who speak English as an additional language. The percentage of pupils supported through the pupil premium, which in this school provides additional funding for pupils in local authority care and those known to be eligible for free school meals, is much lower than average.

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