Clarendon Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a friendly and welcoming environment for its pupils. Located in a vibrant multicultural community in Bolton, the school fosters an atmosphere where students appreciate their similarities and celebrate their differences. The pupils express happiness in their school experience, reflecting the high expectations set by the leaders for both academic and personal achievements. This supportive environment allows students to take pride in their school, contributing to their overall confidence and success.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with a genuine sense of care for one another. Older students actively participate in various roles, such as Clarendon Carers and school council members, promoting inclusivity during playtimes and lunchtimes. The school offers a diverse curriculum that excites students, encouraging them to engage in reading and participate in enriching trips and extracurricular activities. The school has effectively addressed bullying, with pupils reporting that it is rare and that staff handle any incidents promptly, contributing to a safe learning environment.
The curriculum is designed to inspire and motivate students, providing a range of experiences that enhance their skills and knowledge across subjects. This approach has resulted in strong academic performance among all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. The integration of new vocabulary into the curriculum is a notable strength, ensuring that all students are well-supported in their learning journey.
While subjects like history and geography are well-planned and engaging, there are areas for improvement, particularly in art and design and technology, where the curriculum is still developing. Teachers sometimes struggle to present content in a sequence that builds on prior knowledge effectively, which can hinder pupils' learning and retention. Reading is prioritized, with a strong emphasis on developing vocabulary from the early years, and staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge in teaching phonics systematically.
The mathematics curriculum has seen improvements, with training provided to enhance staff skills. However, there are challenges in ensuring that the curriculum meets the needs of all pupils, particularly in key stage two, where some students struggle with problem-solving due to gaps in their foundational knowledge. Leaders are aware of these issues and are working to ensure that pupils gain a secure understanding of essential calculation strategies.
The school places a high priority on pupils' mental health, with initiatives like the 'worry monster' to help students express their concerns. Assemblies and other activities promote values of friendship and care for others, contributing to a positive school culture. Staff feel valued and supported, describing the school as a family-oriented environment focused on the well-being of both pupils and staff.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded in the school. Staff are well-trained to identify and address any concerns regarding pupil welfare, and there is a collaborative approach to supporting vulnerable students. Leaders have a comprehensive understanding of local risks, ensuring that pupils are educated on safety, including online safety.
Overall, Clarendon Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all its pupils. The school is dedicated to ongoing improvement, ensuring that all students can achieve their full potential in a safe and nurturing setting.
