Leighton Middle School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 30 April 2024

Pupils thrive at this happy and welcoming school. Staff know pupils exceptionally well. Strong relationships are at the heart of the school. There is a culture of high expectations and mutual respect. Pupils are well looked after and safe here. In lessons, pupils are enthusiastic, engaged and work hard. Pupils benefit from specialist teaching and facilities from Year 5. They work effectively with their learning partners. Staff encourage pupils to aim high. Pupils achieve well in external assessments in Year 6. By the end of Year 8, they are well prepared for transition to upper school. Pupils quickly adapt to the school's routines when they join. Their behaviour is exemplary in lessons and around the school. They are friendly, kind and supportive, and they get on very well together. Bullying rarely happens, and pupils say that the school deals with it quickly. The school is very strong at supporting pupils' personal development and building their character. Pupils thoroughly enjoy the high-quality offer of clubs, trips and wider opportunities. They relish the many leadership positions they can apply for, such as librarians, play leaders or peer supporters. Pupils know that staff take their views and opinions seriously. They are influential in helping to make the school even better.

What the school should improve

• In a few areas, more recent improvements to the curriculum are still being embedded across the school. Some leaders are new to their roles and require continued training. The school should continue to support all leaders as they refine and embed the delivery of the curriculum.

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