Banks Road Primary School, located in Garston, Liverpool, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and valued. New students are greeted warmly by both staff and peers, contributing to a sense of community that many parents and carers appreciate. Pupils express satisfaction with the care they receive from staff, which enhances their overall school experience. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, ensuring that incidents are dealt with promptly and effectively.
The leadership at Banks Road Primary School sets high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. This commitment extends to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes a culture of hard work and enthusiasm for learning, resulting in positive behavior throughout the school day. Pupils demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another, celebrating their differences and fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Early years children are observed sharing and taking turns, which reflects the school’s values in action.
The outdoor facilities are well-equipped, providing pupils with ample opportunities for play and physical activity. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including rambling, rugby, and graffiti art, which enrich the curriculum and enhance pupils' learning experiences. Notably, pupils engage in practical financial education by running the Banks Road Bank, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
The curriculum at Banks Road Primary School is broad and ambitious, designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that knowledge is built progressively, allowing pupils to develop a strong foundation in key subjects. Teachers effectively model subject-specific vocabulary, enabling most pupils to use it appropriately in discussions about their learning. The staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge and provide clear explanations of new concepts, contributing to the overall success of the pupils.
While many lessons include checks to ensure pupils have grasped essential knowledge before progressing, there are instances in a few subjects where this is not consistently applied. In these cases, some pupils may have gaps in their understanding, which can hinder their academic progress. Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving overall achievement in those subjects.
Reading instruction is a priority at Banks Road Primary School. Leaders ensure that staff are well-equipped to deliver the phonics program effectively, and most pupils who struggle receive the necessary support to catch up. However, a small number of pupils do not progress as quickly as expected due to insufficient opportunities to practice reading. This lack of practice can affect their fluency and comprehension skills.
Older pupils express enjoyment in reading and have access to a diverse range of books. They confidently discuss their favorite authors and engage with non-fiction texts that enhance their vocabulary across subjects. Early years children also show enthusiasm for stories read to them, indicating a strong foundation in literacy.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs. Leaders collaborate with external specialists to ensure that these pupils receive appropriate support, allowing them to access the curriculum alongside their peers. Classrooms maintain a calm and focused atmosphere, with staff addressing behavioral issues promptly to minimize disruptions.
Leaders are committed to the wider development of pupils, teaching them about various cultures and the importance of equality. Pupils learn about healthy lifestyles and develop an understanding of democracy through participation in the school council. The school offers a wealth of activities and visits that cater to diverse interests, ensuring that all pupils have opportunities for enrichment.
While several leaders are new to their roles, they have received adequate training and support to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Governors are knowledgeable about the school and provide valuable support and challenge to the leadership team. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the training and support they receive, which helps manage their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Banks Road Primary School are effective. Staff receive regular training to recognize signs of potential harm, and robust systems are in place for reporting concerns. Leaders maintain a thorough understanding of safeguarding risks and ensure that pupils are educated about staying safe in various contexts.
To improve, the school should focus on ensuring that teachers consistently identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge across all subjects. Additionally, providing struggling readers with more opportunities to practice reading will enhance their fluency and comprehension, ultimately supporting their academic success.
