Valewood Primary School, located in Crosby, Liverpool, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who express pride in their school and describe it as inclusive and amazing. The leadership team has high aspirations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and these expectations are met with enthusiasm by the pupils, resulting in commendable academic achievements.
Pupils at Valewood Primary School are taught to recognize and manage their emotions, which contributes to their self-control and understanding of how their behavior affects others. This emotional awareness fosters a culture of empathy and kindness within the school. The staff is approachable, and pupils feel confident that their concerns will be addressed promptly, contributing to a safe and happy school environment. Parents also express appreciation for the support provided to their children, noting that staff go above and beyond to ensure that every child feels valued and included.
The school has implemented an engaging and ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Leaders have carefully planned the key knowledge that pupils should acquire and the sequence in which it is taught. Teachers receive regular training to enhance their skills in delivering the curriculum effectively. They are adept at explaining new concepts clearly and adapting lessons to meet the needs of all learners. Assessment strategies are employed to identify gaps in knowledge and address misconceptions, although there are areas where improvements can be made.
While the curriculum is strong in many subjects, there are a few areas where pupils struggle to recall prior learning effectively. Teachers are encouraged to systematically check pupils' retention of knowledge over time to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the material. Additionally, while the school has adopted a new phonics program, some pupils are experiencing difficulties with blending sounds, which affects their reading fluency and overall comprehension in other subjects.
In the early years, staff excel at developing vocabulary and tailoring activities to children's interests and developmental needs. The selection of texts across the curriculum is intentional, aiming to enhance learning and promote social and global awareness among pupils. Leaders work closely with parents to identify students with special educational needs and engage with external agencies to provide necessary support, ensuring full inclusion in school activities.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons and during playtime, showing maturity and pride in their work. This positive behavior minimizes disruptions and maximizes learning time. The school emphasizes respect and understanding, integrating these values throughout the curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to voice their opinions on social issues and learn about diverse cultures and family structures.
Governors are actively involved in the school's development, providing both challenge and support to leaders. Staff members feel valued and appreciated, particularly regarding their workload and well-being. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. Overall, Valewood Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its students, with clear areas identified for further improvement, particularly in assessment practices and reading support.
