St Aidan's CofE Primary School, located in Billinge, Wigan, recently underwent an inspection by Ofsted in February 2024. The school, catering for children aged 2 to 11, received an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement, a decline from its previous grade of Good.
Pupil Experience:
Pupils at St Aidan's express a strong sense of belonging and community, often referring to the school as a family. They appreciate the supportive environment fostered by staff, contributing to their happiness and well-being. The school promotes values that encourage pupils to let their light shine, and students demonstrate politeness, respect, and thoughtfulness towards one another and staff.
Behaviour and Attitudes:
The behaviour of pupils is commendable, creating a calm atmosphere conducive to focused learning. Pupils engage positively during playtimes and are taught about relationships, consent, and the importance of friendship. The school emphasizes tolerance and celebrates diversity within the community.
Quality of Education:
While the school has made strides in early reading and phonics, with effective support for struggling pupils, the overall quality of education requires improvement. Achievement levels are inconsistent, especially for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The curriculum, though ambitious, lacks clarity in essential knowledge and the sequence of learning in several subjects, hindering some pupils' ability to build secure foundations for future learning.
Leadership and Management:
Leadership at St Aidan's is under scrutiny, with the need for improved curriculum implementation and staff training highlighted. While staff generally possess secure subject knowledge, some lack the expertise to deliver certain curriculum elements effectively. The governing body is actively involved in supporting the school's improvement efforts.
Personal Development:
The school places a strong emphasis on the personal development of its pupils. They are educated on online safety and mental health, benefiting from various trips and career exploration activities that enhance their confidence and prepare them for future opportunities.
Safeguarding:
Safeguarding measures at St Aidan's are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported within the school environment.
Areas for Improvement:
To enhance the quality of education, the school must clearly define the essential knowledge pupils need to learn and the order in which it should be taught. They should ensure that all staff have the necessary subject knowledge to deliver the curriculum effectively, develop robust methods for assessing the implementation of the curriculum, and provide targeted training for staff to support pupils with SEND more effectively.
Conclusion:
St Aidan's CofE Primary School has a strong foundation built on community values and pupil well-being. However, to achieve its potential and improve educational outcomes, the school must address the identified areas for improvement. With the support of the governing body and a commitment to enhancing teaching practices, St Aidan's can work towards regaining its previous Good status in future inspections.
