The Phoenix Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school Since becoming an academy in 2016, inspirational leadership from the headteacher and her deputy headteacher has transformed the quality of education provided for pupils. Their determination and ambition for pupils fosters a belief among staff that pupils of all abilities and backgrounds can achieve highly.

Leaders at all levels and staff work cohesively as a team to provide pupils with a rich, stimulating environment in which to learn. Teaching is outstanding. Staff go the extra mile to ensure that pupils overcome any barriers to their learning and make exceptional progress.

Pupils' outcomes in reading, writing, mathematics and sc...ience are consistently high. Leaders use additional funding wisely to ensure that the outcomes achieved by disadvantaged pupils are equally high. All pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and pupils who speak English as an additional language, achieve well.

Pupils do not make the same progress in foundation subjects as they do in reading, writing, mathematics and science. Behaviour is exceptional. Pupils respond very well to the expectations of them.

They thrive on the multiple rewards given out for good behaviour and positive attitudes. Pupils' enjoyment of school is shown in their regular attendance. They enthuse about the range of after-school clubs, trips and activities provided for them.

Children in Nursery and Reception classes get off to a great start. Leaders and staff ensure that children settle quickly, develop basic routines and learn to read from an early age. Phonics taught in Nursery provides a solid foundation for further learning.

Staff ensure that most pupils can read well by the time they start Year 1. The academy trust provides exceptional support and challenge for senior leaders. Governors are knowledgeable and professional, and they ensure that all statutory duties are met.

Parents and carers praise the quality of education, support and care provided by staff. Safeguarding is effective.

Information about this school

The school is much larger than average The school opened as an academy in September 2016.

It is part of the Lee Chapel Multi-Academy Trust. A board of trustees oversee the school's management, and they delegate some responsibilities to a local governing body. The majority of pupils are white British.

A significant proportion of pupils come from minority ethnic backgrounds, mostly other white backgrounds, White & Black Caribbean and African backgrounds and speak English as an additional language. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils eligible for the pupil premium is well above average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is average.

The proportion of pupils with an education, health and care plan is below average. Attainment on entry is below average. This is its first S5 inspection since converting to an academy.