The Grange Primary School in Sefton, Bootle, received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on July 3 and 4, 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in October 2020. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils thrive in a supportive environment where they feel safe and valued. The staff's commitment to the well-being of students fosters a culture of kindness and respect, significantly reducing instances of bullying. The school emphasizes high expectations for behavior and academic achievement, including for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. This approach encourages students to engage actively in their learning, resulting in strong performance across most subjects.
Students particularly enjoy communal activities such as assemblies and lunchtimes, which promote interaction among all pupils, including those in specially resourced provisions. The school offers a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, such as choir, cookery, and gardening, which help to broaden pupils' experiences and interests. Opportunities for leadership and community involvement, such as being library ambassadors or members of the school council, further enhance their personal development.
The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge progressively. In most subjects, leaders have identified key knowledge that students need to learn and revisit regularly, which supports their long-term retention of information. However, in a few subjects, the frequency of revisiting key concepts is insufficient, leading to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. This inconsistency can hinder their ability to build on prior learning effectively.
Teachers generally employ effective assessment strategies to identify and address misconceptions during lessons. In the early years, staff utilize their understanding of children's needs to tailor learning experiences appropriately. The school promotes a love of reading from the outset, with staff engaging younger children through storytelling and nursery rhymes. Reception Year pupils receive strong support in developing their reading skills, and those at risk of falling behind are given targeted assistance.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities make good progress due to the tailored support they receive in both mainstream classes and specialized provisions. Teachers are well-trained to adapt the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of these pupils, ensuring they achieve their potential.
The school has established a curriculum that effectively supports pupils' personal development, regularly adapting it to meet individual needs. Leaders encourage community involvement through fundraising initiatives, helping pupils understand the importance of respect and equality.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with clear routines that foster a calm and orderly environment. Attendance remains a priority, and while leaders are making strides to improve attendance rates, particularly for those who are persistently absent, further efforts are needed to ensure all pupils benefit from consistent learning opportunities.
Leaders maintain strong relationships with families and are supported by governors who share their aspirations for pupils. Staff report high levels of job satisfaction and are supported in managing their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online safety, and know how to seek help if needed. Overall, The Grange Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for all its pupils.
