All Saints CofE Primary School in Farnworth, Bolton, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 16 and 17, 2021. The school fosters an environment where pupils are enthusiastic about learning, forming friendships, and enjoying their time at school. This positive atmosphere is largely attributed to the warm and caring relationships that teachers and staff maintain with the students, ensuring that they feel safe and well-supported.
Pupils demonstrate attentiveness in lessons and collaborate effectively with their peers. The high expectations set by teachers encourage students to work diligently and achieve commendable results. Students appreciate the constructive feedback provided by their teachers, which aids in their academic improvement. A notable aspect of the school is the daily reading sessions, where teachers share engaging stories that ignite pupils' imaginations. The enthusiasm for reading is evident as students discuss characters and plots with excitement.
The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and pupils express confidence in the ability of teachers to address any incidents of bullying or disruptive behavior promptly. Beyond academics, students benefit from a diverse range of extracurricular activities that enhance their learning experiences and personal interests. They particularly enjoyed educational trips to the zoo and Salford Museum, as well as participating in the Remembrance service at the local cenotaph. After school, pupils can engage in various activities, including karaoke, gardening, and badminton.
Leadership at All Saints CofE Primary School is characterized by careful planning and ambition for all pupils. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad and rich learning experience, catering for the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have clearly defined what pupils should learn from the early years through to Year 6, ensuring that children develop strong communication skills and an understanding of their surroundings.
Teachers employ a variety of resources and teaching methods to reinforce learning and help pupils retain information. For instance, timeline displays in classrooms and playgrounds assist students in recalling historical events and figures. Young children in the Nursery and Reception classes engage in singing and games that support their numerical understanding. Regular assessments in subjects like mathematics help teachers gauge pupils' comprehension and provide additional support when necessary.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with teachers encouraging a love for books from the early years. Support is provided for pupils who speak English as an additional language, enabling them to catch up quickly. Most pupils acquire the skills to read independently by the end of Year 2, although a small number struggle with fluency due to insufficient practice with phonics.
Pupils with special educational needs are expected to achieve high standards and are actively included in lessons and school activities. Early identification and sensitive support ensure that these pupils receive the assistance they need. The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of their responsibilities and maintaining vigilance in reporting concerns.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, with staff effectively managing any instances of misbehavior, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons. Educational trips and workshops are closely aligned with classroom learning, enriching pupils' understanding of various subjects, including history and cultural diversity. The school reflects the diverse community of Farnworth through its curriculum and resources.
Compassionate leadership is a hallmark of the school, with leaders prioritizing the well-being of staff, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff appreciate the mental health support available and the efforts made to reduce their workload. The governing body plays an active role in overseeing the school’s operations and holding leaders accountable.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that all pupils in key stage one receive adequate practice in phonics to enhance their reading fluency. Leaders are encouraged to focus on providing sufficient opportunities for pupils to practice phoneme pronunciation, which is essential for developing confident and accurate reading skills. Overall, All Saints CofE Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
