Hetton Lyons Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 January 2026

Pupils thrive at this school. In the early years, children settle quickly because they are well supported by caring staff. This helps children to work well together as they learn about the world around them. This culture of collaboration and curiosity continues to develop as pupils progress through the school. Overall, pupils achieve well and show enjoyment of learning. They speak positively about their lessons and value the ambitious, well-sequenced curriculum. Teachers help pupils to build knowledge over time and prepare them well for their next steps. Pupils who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive effective support to learn alongside their peers. Any barriers to learning are identified early and addressed thoughtfully. Pupils who attend 'The Den', the school's specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND, benefit from specialised learning. This enables these pupils to acquire the skills they need to make progress through the curriculum. Most pupils attend school often and participate enthusiastically in the extensive range of activities on offer, for example tennis and brass band tuition. Pupils and parents and carers enjoy attending events throughout the year, such as coffee mornings and May Day celebrations. Leaders plan meaningful opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school counsellors or school ambassadors. These roles help pupils to feel trusted and appreciated, while making an active contribution to the school community. They prepare pupils well for later life. Pupils generally show positive attitudes to learning and to one another. They understand the expectations of their behaviour, so reminders from staff are rarely needed. A highly effective pastoral care programme supports pupils' confidence, resilience and emotional wellbeing. Bullying is rare, and pupils are confident that adults will act swiftly and effectively should any concerns arise. This helps pupils to feel safe.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to strengthen teachers' use of assessment to understand pupils' starting points and ongoing progress so that they can adapt teaching where necessary, identify and address gaps and support pupils to achieve as highly as possible.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)