Loddington CofE (VA) Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 February 2023

There is a real family feel in and around the school. Parents and carers are very positive about their children's experiences. As one parent typically stated: 'I love the school. It's like a family; very caring and understanding.' Leaders are keen to ensure that the school is at the heart of the local community. Pupils enjoy hearing the memories of their 'pen pals', who are residents in a local care home for the elderly. Leaders are aspirational for all pupils to achieve academically and personally. They are keen to broaden pupils' horizons. Pupils enjoy a wide range of activities that help them explore beyond the curriculum. Parents appreciate how their children benefit from these extra opportunities. The school is calm. Pupils behave well around school. They are happy and feel safe. One pupil reflected others' views by saying: 'The school is a really nice place. Everyone is really friendly.' Pupils know teachers deal with bullying should it happen. Pupils respect each other and their differences. They look after and support each other as they get older. Pupils in key stage 2 enjoy working with younger pupils as 'reading buddies'. Pupils sensitively correct others if they say something inappropriate.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, subject leaders do not check closely enough that teachers are implementing the curriculum consistently well. Some pupils cannot always recall what they have learned in these subjects. Senior leaders should ensure that subject leaders check that the planned curriculum is being delivered as intended, so that pupils remember important knowledge.
• Teachers do not always check what pupils have learned carefully enough. Pupils sometimes have gaps in their knowledge. Leaders should ensure that systems to check what pupils know are used consistently by teachers. Leaders should make sure that teachers use this information to inform their future curriculum plans.
• A few pupils have a limited understanding of protected groups and different faiths. They know it is important to respect difference and diversity. However, they do not always demonstrate this through recall of knowledge. Leaders should ensure that all pupils have the necessary knowledge and understanding of British values, gender equality and different faiths.

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