Sandy Lane Primary School Recognised for Progress in Latest Ofsted Inspection

Inspectors judged the school as meeting the Expected Standard in Attendance and Behaviour, Curriculum and Teaching, Early Years, Inclusion, Leadership and Governance, and Personal Development and Wellbeing. Safeguarding was found to be effective, and inspectors validated leaders’ self-evaluation, identifying Achievement as an area for further development.

Recognising Progress and School Improvement

The report highlights the significant progress made at Sandy Lane Primary School since joining Greenshaw Learning Trust and under the leadership of Headteacher Katie Parkhouse.

Inspectors noted improvements in curriculum delivery, support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and the development of a strong inclusive culture rooted in high expectations and a clear focus on pupil wellbeing.

A Safe, Supportive and Inclusive Environment

Ofsted found that staff know pupils well and create a calm and caring environment where children feel safe, valued and supported. Pupils spoke positively about their experiences at school and the wide range of opportunities available to them, including leadership roles, sport, and enrichment activities.

The report also recognised the school’s effective approach to personal development, helping pupils build an understanding of responsibility, healthy relationships and how to stay safe, including online.

Curriculum and Early Years Development

Leaders’ work to strengthen the curriculum was praised, particularly in developing pupils’ essential knowledge and skills in communication and language, reading, spelling, handwriting and mathematics.

Inspectors noted that curriculum improvements are becoming increasingly embedded across the school, supported by ongoing investment in staff development and professional learning.

In the early years, children were found to make a positive start to school life, supported by well-planned learning experiences and strong partnerships with families.

Strong Inclusion and Support for Pupils

Inclusion was identified as a key strength of the school. Inspectors found that pupils’ needs are identified early and supported effectively, including through the school’s specialist resource provision for pupils with autism and speech, language and communication needs.

The report highlighted how tailored support helps pupils develop independence, confidence and essential life skills, enabling them to thrive both academically and personally.

Leadership and Next Steps

Inspectors recognised that leaders have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and priorities for development, supported by effective governance and the Greenshaw Learning Trust.

Headteacher Katie Parkhouse said:

“This report reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils and families, and I am proud of the progress we have made together. We are committed to building on what is going well – our inclusive culture, our care for every child and our clear focus on the foundations of learning. We know there is more to do, and we are working with energy and purpose to ensure every pupil at Sandy Lane achieves as well as they can.”

Will Smith OBE, CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, added:

“Sandy Lane is a school where pupils are cared for, supported and given the opportunity to flourish. We are proud to support Katie and her team as they continue to drive progress for every pupil.”

Find the full report here.