SIAMS inspections evaluate how effectively schools foster a strong Christian ethos, ensuring pupils, staff and the wider community can grow and flourish.

Following the inspection, the village primary school was commended for living up to its foundation as a Church school and its “thoroughly embedded” Christian vision to “be kind and build each other up”. 

The report noted that effective pastoral provision ensures that pupils and adults “feel known and loved as unique individuals,” nurturing a deep sense of belonging and underpinning a positive culture of wellbeing.

John Slater, Executive Headteacher at Leadenham CE Primary Academy, said:
“I am incredibly proud of this report, which reflects the dedication of the wonderful team at Leadenham CE Primary and the caring environment we have built together here.

“Our vision is at the heart of everything we do, and it is wonderful to see how this supports every member of our school community to grow and thrive throughout their time with us.”

Other highlights of the report included:

• “Collective worship clearly embodies the vision, shaping relationships across the academy. It creates a caring and nurturing space where pupils and adults experience spirituality, and practise kindness and encouragement.” 
• “[Pupils] look out for one another, with older pupils caring responsibly for younger ones.”
• “The language of ‘self, others, world and beyond’ supports pupils and adults to reflect and make meaningful connections.”
• “Adults consistently model respect and compassion, which helps pupils to understand how these values influence their personal relationships and learning.”
• “Guided by the vision, leaders ensure that pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those deemed to be vulnerable are known, supported and able to engage fully in academy life.”
• “Effective collaboration with the Infinity Academies Trust builds strong leadership capacity, resulting in a Christian vision that consistently guides strategic decisions. Consequently, provision across the academy supports pupils and adults to flourish.” 

The inspector also highlighted the strong provision beyond the classroom. Outdoor learning was highlighted as a strength that provides “rich opportunities that develop resilience, collaboration and appreciation of the natural world.” 

In addition, the wider curriculum was praised for offering “inclusive and carefully chosen experiences that broaden pupils’ horizons”, as a result “pupils grow in confidence and are better prepared to engage positively with future learning and life experiences.” 

Gavin Booth, CEO at Infinity Academies Trust, added: “My congratulations to everyone at Leadenham CE Primary Academy for this fantastic report, which recognises the strong Christian ethos that underpins every aspect of life at Leadenham. 

“As a Trust family, we are proud to work together as a community to ensure this wonderful school continues to bring out the very best in every pupil.”

Leadenham CE Primary Academy currently has places available in certain year groups. To find out more or book a tour please call 01400 272702 or email leadenham@infinityacademies.co.uk