Allanson Street Primary School, located in St Helens, Merseyside, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 14 and 15, 2024. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel a sense of belonging, belief, aspiration, and achievement. Each day, students are greeted warmly by staff who encourage them to reach their full potential. The school emphasizes resilience and self-belief among its pupils, which is increasingly evident in their attitudes and behaviors.
The curriculum at Allanson Street Primary is both ambitious and engaging, ensuring that students learn effectively across various subjects. Pupils express happiness in attending school and feel a strong sense of inclusivity, stating that there are
o outsiders. The early years program provides a solid foundation for children, teaching them essential social skills such as sharing and taking turns. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a strong commitment to learning and a sense of pride in their school community.
A notable strength of the school is its commitment to the wider development of its pupils. They benefit from a variety of enriching experiences, including visits to museums, art galleries, and parks. The school also organizes annual public speaking opportunities, which help to build students' confidence. The steps to success program rewards pupils for participating in clubs and community activities, such as dance clubs and performances for the elderly.
The governing body plays a crucial role in supporting the school's caring ethos, balancing support with appropriate challenges. Staff members describe the school as a family, and they receive strong support from leadership. The recent revision of the marking policy has also helped to reduce the workload for teachers, allowing them to focus more on teaching and learning.
The school has made significant strides in enhancing its curriculum, ensuring that it is vibrant and relevant. Pupils learn about local history and the contributions of influential figures, fostering a sense of pride in their community. The curriculum is well-structured, with a clear focus on essential knowledge and vocabulary. Teachers are adept at checking pupils' understanding and encouraging the use of new vocabulary in their work. The curriculum is designed to build on knowledge year after year, providing a coherent learning experience.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and have effective systems in place to identify and support pupils with additional needs. Instruction is often broken down into manageable steps, which is particularly beneficial for students with special educational needs and disabilities. By the end of key stage two, pupils achieve commendable results.
In lessons, teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding, allowing them to identify and address any gaps in learning. While most misconceptions are corrected promptly, there is a need for more opportunities for pupils to recall prior learning. This gap can lead to some pupils feeling less secure in their long-term retention of knowledge.
In the early years, teachers skillfully design activities that reinforce learning, such as practicing number recognition through play. Staff prioritize the development of language and communication skills, engaging with children to enhance their learning experiences. The curriculum is supported by carefully selected texts, encouraging frequent reading among pupils. Children in the Reception class enjoy storytime, while older pupils develop a love for reading and demonstrate confidence in their abilities.
The phonics program is well-established, with staff effectively using assessments to identify pupils who may need additional support. However, there are instances where the program is not delivered consistently, which can hinder some pupils' reading fluency. The school recognizes the importance of ensuring that all staff are confident and skilled in delivering the phonics curriculum.
Pupils exhibit exceptional behavior, supported by strong pastoral care and positive relationships within the school community. They engage happily during social times and take pride in their roles as ambassadors for various initiatives, such as anti-bullying and reading.
The school provides well-considered opportunities to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain, including interactions with role models from emergency services and trips to universities. Pupils learn about different religions and develop an appreciation for diversity.
The safeguarding arrangements at Allanson Street Primary are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to enhance the consistency of its phonics program and focus on helping pupils recall essential knowledge to strengthen their understanding across the curriculum. Overall, Allanson Street Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
