Ofsted has praised a primary school in Coventry that is ‘aspirational for all pupils’ and has the motto ‘working together, learning forever’. Longford Park Primary School in Longford is said to be a ‘happy school’ where pupils ‘love coming’ and ‘feel safe’.
Inspectors visited the school on Tuesday, November 19 and Wednesday, November 20. The school received an overall ‘Good’ rating after previously being graded as ‘requires improvement’ in the last inspection.
All pupils are said to have many opportunities for character development. Inspectors found children in the early years complete fifty activities before they are five. The activities encourage pupils to be curious, adventurous, and independent, while older pupils enthusiastically take on leadership responsibilities, such as running their own clubs in chess, space, and mathematics.
Read more: Coventry’s best primary schools for 2025, according to Ofsted
Inspectors said the school’s curriculum is ‘ambitious’ and carefully designed. It identifies the important knowledge, skills, and vocabulary that pupils need to learn. This helps teachers deliver the curriculum well and prepare pupils for their next steps in education. Staff begin each lesson by checking what pupils already know and remember and helping pupils make links to new learning. They present information clearly and ensure pupils have the chance to practice key skills.
In addition, the school works well with parents and external services for pupils with SEND, and extra help, such as speech and language therapy, is sourced early. The majority of staff adapt their lessons, which helps pupils achieve well.
The school has ‘STAR’ values from self-esteem, trust, aspiration, and respect, and supports this approach to pupils’ personal development. Pupils of all ages take part in a range of experiences to take their learning beyond the classroom. In the school forest area, children in the early years learn to work as a team, while older pupils learn about sustainability. Stories and visits to places of worship teach pupils about diversity and difference.
Pupils also benefit from opportunities that enable them to develop their sense of community and social responsibility. These opportunities include singing for elderly people and raising funds for the local hospice. The school also strongly emphasises nurturing pupils’ talents and interests, such as participating in choir, art, and orienteering.
On the other hand, leaders, governors and staff work as a team to ensure the school continually improves for the pupils. Longford Park has an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and priorities. Staff are said to be proud to work at the school feel valued, and appreciate the training opportunities and the consideration given to their workload and well-being.
To view the full Ofsted report and previous inspections at Longford Park Primary School, visit the Ofsted website for more.
Get daily headlines and breaking news emailed to you – it’s FREE