Horwich Parish CofE Primary School, located in Bolton, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 12 and 13, 2022. The school provides a safe environment where pupils feel secure and enjoy their learning experiences. Students express a strong appreciation for reading and the engaging activities offered across various subjects. The high expectations set by teachers for both behavior and academic performance contribute to a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. The school's values are integrated into the curriculum, fostering a sense of pride among pupils in their work and preparing them well for future educational challenges. Most students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve commendable results.
Behavior in the school is generally good, although there are occasional reports of bullying and name-calling. Pupils and parents acknowledge that staff are responsive to concerns, addressing issues effectively when they arise. The school encourages responsibility among students, who take on roles such as buddies for younger children and participate in practical activities like growing and selling vegetables from the school allotment. The curriculum is enriched through diverse experiences, including outdoor learning and community involvement.
The leadership team has crafted an engaging curriculum that breaks down content into manageable steps, ensuring that knowledge builds progressively from early years to Year 6. While most subjects feature demanding content, a few areas lack the same level of challenge, which can hinder pupils' learning. Teachers regularly assess students' understanding and employ various strategies to reinforce learning. A key focus for leaders is to ensure that every pupil becomes a proficient reader. From the outset, children in the Reception class are encouraged to develop a love for books and phonics. Support is provided promptly for those who struggle, although some pupils with special educational needs may not receive sufficient practice to achieve fluency in reading.
Pupils generally report good behavior during lessons, allowing them to focus on their studies with minimal disruption. The curriculum is designed to cultivate resilience and social responsibility, teaching students about diverse cultures and ethical considerations. The school emphasizes community engagement through fundraising and local support initiatives. Although extracurricular activities have been limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders remain committed to enhancing pupils' learning experiences.
The school effectively identifies and meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive appropriate support across most subjects. Investments have been made in improving the early years' outdoor area, providing necessary resources for curriculum delivery. Leaders are proactive in reducing staff workload and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is appreciated by the majority of staff. The governing body demonstrates ambition for the school’s continued success.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff well-trained to recognize and address various child protection issues. Pupils are educated on safety in different contexts, and leaders collaborate with external professionals to manage safeguarding concerns effectively.
To further improve, the school should enhance the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure it builds sequentially towards ambitious learning goals. Additionally, it is essential to provide more opportunities for pupils with special educational needs to practice reading, ensuring they develop confidence and fluency. Overall, Horwich Parish CofE Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
