Johnson Fold Community Primary School in Bolton has been recognized for its outstanding performance during an ungraded inspection conducted on May 23 and 24, 2023. The school maintains its overall judgment of outstanding, although inspectors noted that a future graded inspection might yield a different assessment. The school is characterized by a warm and vibrant environment where pupils feel safe, happy, and well cared for. Leaders have established a culture of high expectations, encouraging pupils to excel both academically and socially. Pupils express pride in their school, describing it as a happy family where everyone gets along.
The school has implemented a rich and balanced curriculum that meets national standards, although there are areas for improvement. While pupils demonstrate a secure understanding in some subjects, others show less achievement. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, and pupils take pride in representing their school in various events. Parents and carers have expressed overwhelmingly positive views about the leadership and staff, feeling valued and listened to in their children's education.
Leaders have collaborated with staff to design a comprehensive learning journey, but in some subjects, key concepts have not been clearly identified or revisited frequently enough to ensure secure learning. Teachers receive subject-specific training and generally present new learning effectively, although there are instances where misconceptions among pupils are not addressed promptly. Overall, pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well in certain areas, but some struggle to retain earlier learning or connect it with current content.
The school has established a structured reading program that immerses young children in a language-rich environment, fostering a love for books from an early age. Staff provide consistent support, enabling pupils to read with growing confidence and fluency. Older pupils demonstrate a mature understanding of a wide range of texts and enjoy spending time in the well-resourced library.
Pupils' conduct reflects the school's values, with impeccable manners observed throughout. However, attendance remains a concern, as some pupils do not attend school as regularly as they should, impacting their progress. Pupils with special educational needs learn alongside their peers, with their needs identified and addressed effectively. Leaders have ensured that pupils benefit from a well-thought-out program that supports their wider development, including learning about diverse cultures and backgrounds.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil safety and providing staff with regular training. Pupils are educated about various safety aspects, including internet safety and the dangers of gang involvement. To improve, the school needs to refine its curriculum further, ensuring that key concepts are emphasized and revisited to deepen pupils' understanding. Additionally, addressing attendance issues is crucial for enhancing overall pupil progress. The school has made strides in these areas and is committed to ensuring that all pupils attend school regularly to maximize their educational experience.
