Lister Junior School, located in Liverpool, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 18 and 19, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and positive atmosphere where teachers have high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils demonstrate eagerness to learn and exhibit a strong work ethic in their lessons. They feel safe and well cared for, fostering a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in classrooms and during break times, with effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and educational trips, which enrich the students' learning experiences. Recent activities included a forensic science workshop and an engaging visit from a Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur. Pupils have also excelled in competitions related to performing arts and water polo. Older students take on leadership roles, such as assisting younger peers with reading, which enhances their sense of responsibility.
Parents and caregivers express strong support for the school, appreciating the nurturing environment and the encouragement their children receive. Leaders and governors are ambitious for all pupils, ensuring that the full range of national curriculum subjects is taught. The school organizes various workshops and visitor sessions to enhance learning experiences. Leaders have carefully considered the knowledge that pupils should acquire, which aids teachers in planning their lessons effectively. Opportunities for pupils to revisit previously learned material contribute to their strong academic performance.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement. In some subjects, the curriculum lacks clarity regarding the essential content that leaders want pupils to learn, which can hinder the development of foundational knowledge. Additionally, while leaders have established methods to assess pupil understanding in subjects like mathematics and English, similar assessments in other subjects are less effective, limiting teachers' ability to tailor future learning based on students' needs.
The school prioritizes reading, particularly for pupils entering Year 3 with limited phonics knowledge. Teachers are well-trained in phonics instruction, and pupils engage with texts that align with their phonetic understanding, fostering their reading skills. By the end of Year 6, students emerge as confident and fluent readers.
Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, with their needs identified promptly. Teachers adapt their instruction and resources to ensure these pupils can access the full curriculum and achieve well. The school promotes respect among students and maintains a calm and orderly environment, prioritizing mental health support.
Governors are aware of the school's strengths and areas for development, providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders consider their workload and foster teamwork. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential abuse and respond appropriately.
In summary, while Lister Junior School demonstrates many strengths, including a supportive environment and strong academic performance, it must address curriculum clarity and assessment practices in certain subjects to enhance overall pupil learning and development.
