Lighthorne Heath Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 October 2022

Lighthorne Heath is a friendly and inclusive school. Staff know pupils and their families well. They look after pupils and make sure they feel safe. Staff encourage pupils to share their opinions. They listen carefully to pupils' views. Leaders provide many opportunities to broaden pupils' experiences and develop their interests. All pupils can take responsibility through one of the school's numerous pupil committees. Pupils are proud to be mental health ambassadors, members of the eco- council and learning detectives. They benefit from annual visits to the theatre, residential trips and extra-curricular clubs. Leaders and staff across the federation work together to ensure that all pupils achieve well. Pupils enjoy learning because they study a broad and interesting curriculum. This is enriched by regular trips and visitors. Leaders have invested heavily in the teaching of reading. However, some pupils need more help to become fluent readers. Pupils learn the difference between right and wrong. They behave sensibly in lessons and around school. Pupils of different ages play together happily at social times. They say that bullying sometimes happens and they know what to do when it does. Pupils say they can talk to an adult if they have a problem. They know adults will help.

What the school should improve

• In phonics, younger pupils in mixed-age classes, and pupils who are behind in the phonics programme, do not get enough teaching that is focused on the sounds they need to learn next. As a result, a small number of pupils are not making the progress they should. Some pupils who have fallen behind are not catching up as quickly as they could. This includes some pupils with SEND. Leaders should ensure that all teaching is matched to the sounds that pupils need to learn so that all pupils become fluent readers.

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