Located in the heart of Kearsley, Bolton, Spindle Point Primary School has recently reaffirmed its status as a good school following an inspection conducted on January 12 and 13, 2022. The school, which caters to children aged 3 to 11, has been recognized for its commitment to providing a safe, engaging, and enriching learning environment.
Pupils at Spindle Point Primary School express a genuine enjoyment of their educational experience. They appreciate the efforts of their teachers, who are dedicated to making learning both interesting and enjoyable. The high expectations set by school leaders and staff contribute significantly to the pupils' thriving academic performance. The school fosters a culture of hard work and active participation, ensuring that students are not only engaged but also achieving well across various subjects.
Safety and well-being are paramount at Spindle Point. Pupils report feeling secure within the school environment, where they exhibit exceptional behavior and collaborate effectively during lessons. The school's outdoor facilities, including a gym and adventure play area, provide students with opportunities for physical activity and social interaction during break times. Furthermore, trusting relationships between pupils and adults are nurtured, ensuring that students feel comfortable voicing any concerns or worries.
Spindle Point Primary School offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that enhance pupils' personal development. From sports and photography to dodgeball, students have ample opportunities to explore their interests. The school organizes visits to cinemas and museums, which enrich the curriculum and broaden pupils' horizons. Additionally, residential trips are designed to build resilience and self-confidence through outdoor adventurous activities.
Older pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, serving as anti-bullying ambassadors, online safety mentors, and members of various committees. This involvement not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also enhances their social skills as they lead play activities for younger children.
The school's leadership has crafted an ambitious and well-structured curriculum that spans from the early years to Year 6. The curriculum is logically sequenced, ensuring that pupils build on their existing knowledge and skills. While most subjects are well-planned, there are a few areas where the curriculum could be further refined to enhance pupils' understanding and retention of key concepts.
Teachers at Spindle Point are well-trained and possess a strong grasp of their subjects. They regularly assess pupils' understanding and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly. In the early years, children are introduced to the world of books through engaging stories and songs, while systematic phonics instruction in Reception and Key Stage 1 helps pupils develop confident reading skills.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Staff are trained to identify these pupils quickly and provide the necessary support to ensure they can access the full curriculum alongside their peers. This inclusive approach is a testament to the school's dedication to fostering an equitable learning environment for all students.
The governing body at Spindle Point plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders. They monitor the impact of initiatives aimed at improving educational quality and ensure that staff workload is considered in decision-making processes. The positive feedback from staff indicates a strong sense of pride in being part of the Spindle Point community.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place. Leaders and staff are well-informed about their responsibilities in protecting pupils and managing concerns. Regular training ensures that staff are equipped to identify potential risks to students' welfare. The school also employs appropriate filtering and monitoring systems to safeguard pupils from online threats.
Spindle Point Primary School stands out as a model of excellence in education, combining a rigorous academic curriculum with a nurturing and supportive environment. While the school has received commendations for its achievements, there remains a commitment to continuous improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to ensure all subjects are equally robust. With a dedicated staff, engaged pupils, and supportive governance, Spindle Point Primary School is well-positioned to continue its legacy of providing high-quality education for years to come.
