Norman Pannell Primary School in Liverpool received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on 22 and 23 November 2022, and the school has maintained this good rating since its previous inspection in 2016. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and take pride in the school motto, which emphasizes the importance of healthy bodies, minds, and futures. They feel safe and happy, with a strong belief that any instances of bullying are rare and dealt with promptly by staff.
The school demonstrates high expectations for pupil behavior and achievement, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This has resulted in a calm learning environment where pupils can focus on their education without interruptions. The school offers a well-planned program for personal development, encouraging participation in local competitions and a variety of extracurricular activities, such as debate club and multisports.
Parents and carers generally hold positive views about the school, with many willing to recommend it to others. The leadership team has established a well-structured curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils, particularly focusing on communication, language, and early reading skills. This approach has proven effective, as children in the early years are reported to start their education on a solid foundation.
In most subjects, the curriculum is well-organized, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn. However, there are some subjects where the curriculum is less developed, which can hinder pupils' ability to build on their existing knowledge. In these areas, pupils may struggle to recall what they have learned. While assessment strategies are effectively used in many subjects to support pupil progress, there are instances where this is not as effective, potentially limiting some pupils' achievements.
Reading instruction is a priority, beginning from the first days in Reception. The school has implemented a consistent approach to teaching phonics, ensuring that all staff are well-trained. Books are matched to the sounds pupils are learning, and support is provided promptly for those who struggle with reading. Daily reading is encouraged, and older pupils report that their teachers motivate them to read both at school and at home.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they are identified early and receive appropriate support within the classroom. This inclusive approach allows these pupils to access the full curriculum and achieve well.
The school fosters a positive culture where respect and diversity are valued. Pupils demonstrate high levels of respect for one another and understand the importance of maintaining their physical and mental health through activities like meditation. Attendance has improved over time, but leaders continue to prioritize this area to ensure all pupils attend regularly.
Governors are actively involved in the school, asking insightful questions to understand its strengths and areas for improvement. They hold leaders accountable for their work. The well-being of staff is also a priority, contributing to a supportive environment for both new and experienced teachers.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, ensuring pupils are informed about risks such as county lines. Overall, while the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subjects have a clearly defined curriculum and that attendance continues to rise.
