Ladybridge Community Primary School in Bolton has undergone a recent inspection, which took place on February 8 and 9, 2022. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of good, reflecting significant improvements since its previous inspection, which was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good.
Pupils express pride in their school, demonstrating confidence and independence in their learning. They support one another and respect diverse viewpoints and cultures, contributing to a positive and harmonious school environment. The school fosters a sense of community where friendships flourish, and pupils feel welcomed. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, ensuring that teaching is engaging and tailored to pupils' interests. Parents and carers commend the thoughtful support provided, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to learning routines and exhibit high standards of behavior. They are motivated and polite, contributing to a respectful atmosphere throughout the school. The school prioritizes safety, with initiatives like anti-bullying ambassadors and well-being champions in place to ensure a supportive environment. Pupils feel confident that staff will address any concerns, including bullying, and leaders respond diligently to any issues raised.
The curriculum is well-organized and ambitious, meeting the needs of the pupils. Leaders have clearly defined the topics and key knowledge that pupils should learn, enabling teachers to build on prior knowledge effectively. However, in a few subjects, the expectations for what pupils should know are less clear, which can hinder some pupils from achieving their full potential. The school has made significant strides in early reading, particularly in response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers are adept at assessing pupils' prior knowledge to inform future learning.
Leaders ensure that children in the early years who may have special educational needs or are learning English as an additional language receive timely support. The phonics program is diligently followed, allowing pupils to practice reading with appropriately matched texts, which enhances their fluency. Older pupils are encouraged to explore unfamiliar texts, broadening their understanding of various historical contexts and cultures. By Year 6, all pupils, including those with special educational needs, demonstrate a strong appreciation for reading and its role in their learning.
The school promotes a thirst for knowledge, with teaching staff setting high standards for both academic achievement and behavior. Pupils are eager to participate in extracurricular activities, developing leadership skills through various roles within the school community. They show respect and maturity in discussions, valuing the importance of understanding different beliefs and cultures.
Governance at the school is robust, with governors providing effective support and challenge to ensure a high-quality education for all pupils. They engage with staff and consider the views of pupils and parents, fostering a sense of community and value.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders and governors well-trained in safeguarding practices. They take prompt action to address any issues and work collaboratively with external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, particularly online, and they adhere to school rules.
To further improve, leaders need to finalize the essential knowledge that pupils must learn in a minority of foundation subjects, ensuring that all pupils can achieve their highest potential. Overall, Ladybridge Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and high-quality educational experience for its pupils.
