St Brendan’s RC Primary School in Harwood, Bolton, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a rating of good during the inspection conducted from January 8 to 9, 2020. The school is characterized by a strong commitment to the quality of education, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for their learning and demonstrating excellent attendance. The school environment fosters a sense of safety and well-being, with pupils reporting that incidents of bullying are rare and that they feel confident in approaching adults with any concerns. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they exhibit sensible conduct both in lessons and throughout the school premises.
The school promotes a culture of mutual support among pupils, with older students taking on responsibilities to care for younger ones, particularly in the Reception class. This buddy system enhances social interactions during playtime and contributes to a nurturing atmosphere. Pupils take pride in their roles, such as being members of the school council or part of the ‘Gift’ team, which positively impacts school life and helps younger children acclimate to the school environment. The variety of extracurricular clubs available, including choir and sports, further enriches the pupils' experience.
The curriculum at St Brendan’s is designed to be engaging and responsive to the diverse needs of its pupils. Teachers effectively plan lessons that build on prior knowledge, ensuring that pupils develop a broad range of skills across subjects. The emphasis on reading is particularly strong, with phonics instruction beginning early in a child's education. The school has seen nearly all pupils meet the expected standards in the Year 1 phonics screening check, and many students are enthusiastic readers outside of school. However, there is recognition that improvements are needed in reading outcomes at the end of key stage two, prompting leaders to revise the reading curriculum to enhance comprehension and stamina.
The mathematics curriculum is noted as a strength, with pupils achieving well compared to national standards. Subject leaders have clearly outlined the key skills and knowledge that pupils should acquire, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and those who are disadvantaged, are supported in their learning journey. The music curriculum also stands out, with pupils gaining knowledge of various composers and learning to play multiple instruments by the end of key stage two.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to the school environment, forming friendships and enjoying their learning experiences. The staff's dedication to developing early mathematics and language skills ensures that children are well-prepared for Year 1. The well-being of staff is prioritized, with leaders actively working to reduce workload and promote a supportive atmosphere.
Pupils demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning and collaborate effectively. They show a strong understanding of equality and diversity, engaging in community support activities such as checking air quality and organizing litter picks. The curriculum includes studies of different cultures and religions, providing pupils with a comprehensive understanding of modern British life.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to ensure the safety of pupils. The school community feels secure, and the curriculum includes essential lessons on staying safe in various contexts. Overall, while St Brendan’s RC Primary School excels in many areas, there is a clear commitment to continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing reading outcomes for all pupils.
