Gwladys Street Primary and Nursery School in Liverpool has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 3 and 4, 2023. The school is recognized for its inclusive environment where pupils feel welcomed and treated fairly. Leaders demonstrate ambition for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, fostering an atmosphere that encourages achievement. Pupils exhibit good behavior, are attentive in lessons, and engage positively during social interactions. They feel comfortable sharing concerns with staff, who effectively address any incidents of bullying.
The school promotes active citizenship among pupils, encouraging participation in charitable activities and community roles such as the mini police. Pupils appreciate the variety of clubs available, which cater to diverse interests and talents. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and builds logically on prior learning, although some subjects are still in the early stages of development. This has led to instances where pupils do not retain knowledge as effectively as they should in those areas. Teachers receive structured training to implement the curriculum effectively, revisiting learning to aid retention.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a well-structured phonics program in place. Pupils in the early years are encouraged to engage with nursery rhymes and books, leading to a high proportion of confident readers by the end of key stage one. The school effectively supports pupils who join mid-year, particularly those who speak English as an additional language, ensuring they quickly adapt and succeed in their learning.
Pupils enjoy reading a variety of high-quality texts and express enthusiasm for their favorite authors. In many subjects, the curriculum is well-established, and teachers employ effective strategies to assess understanding and address misconceptions. However, in a few subjects, some pupils struggle to remember their learning as well as they should.
Children in the early years settle quickly and engage well with their teachers. Low-level disruption is rare, and staff provide support for those who may find it challenging to concentrate. Leaders are proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.
The school fosters personal development through various opportunities, teaching pupils about diversity and British values such as democracy and the rule of law. While many parents express positive views about the school, some feel that communication regarding changes and their children's progress could be improved. This gap in communication can hinder parents' understanding of how to best support their children's education.
Governors are knowledgeable about their roles and responsibilities, providing both challenge and support to school leaders. Staff report feeling well-supported by leadership. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety in place. Staff are trained to recognize potential risks and follow clear procedures for reporting concerns. Leaders maintain detailed records and collaborate with external agencies to ensure vulnerable pupils receive appropriate support.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders need to finalize the curriculum design in a few subjects to ensure coherent knowledge progression. Additionally, improving communication with parents will help them better understand the school's efforts to support their children's education and well-being. Overall, Gwladys Street Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment.
