Westways Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school After a period of turbulence following the previous inspection, the executive headteacher has raised expectations of what pupils should and can achieve. As a result, pupils' outcomes have improved. Governors provide challenge and support.

They hold senior and middle leaders to account effectively. The quality of teaching is good. Teachers have good subject knowledge.

However, the teaching of spelling is not consistent. Teachers' questioning does not consistently allow pupils to think more deeply about their learning. Most pupils behave well.

They are polite to visitors. Pupils show respect to and tolerance of those of different f...aiths and cultures. The curriculum is broad and balanced and is enhanced by visiting speakers and a range of trips and visits.

British values are fostered well. Pupils' attendance has improved. The numbers of pupils who are regularly absent from school is declining.

The vast majority of staff feel well supported by senior leaders. Professional development is having a positive effect on improving the good quality teaching. Middle leaders increasingly check the effect of school initiatives.

The culture of reading, in particular, has strengthened across all year groups because of better monitoring. While the progress made by pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is improving, leadership of this aspect of the school's work has not been consistently effective. Leaders work with external agencies to provide appropriate support for vulnerable pupils and their families when needed.

However, records do not reflect precisely the actions that leaders have taken. Leaders do not consistently analyse behaviour trends to inform their work to improve pupils' conduct and attitudes to learning. The proportion of children in the early years achieving a good level of development is above the national average.

Additional opportunities for children to practise their basic skills in different situations, both indoors and in the outdoor areas, would enhance children's learning further.

Information about this school

Westways Primary School is a much larger than average-sized primary school. The executive headteacher was appointed in September 2017.

The leadership team also includes a head of school, an acting deputy headteacher and three assistant headteachers. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic groups is well above the national average. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is below the national average.

The proportion of pupils with SEND is below the national average. The number of pupils joining the school at times other than the start of the school year is increasing. The school does not use any alternative education provision.