Fairfield Community Primary School in Bury, Lancashire, has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection conducted on March 29 and 30, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and friendly environment where staff actively encourage all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to succeed. Pupils express high levels of happiness and enjoyment in their learning and social interactions. New students, including those from different countries, quickly integrate and form friendships, feeling valued as part of the school community.
The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, with many pupils highlighting the kindness and patience of their teachers. Staff are committed to ensuring that all pupils feel safe, effectively addressing any concerns related to bullying. Pupils strive to meet the high expectations set by school leaders regarding behavior and academic achievement. They demonstrate politeness and diligence, taking pride in their accomplishments and participating in various creative and well-planned learning activities. The presence of a therapy dog, Dougie, adds to the positive atmosphere, as pupils enjoy engaging with him during reading sessions.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to explore their interests through extracurricular activities such as musical theatre and sports clubs. Pupils also take on responsible roles, such as young leaders and reading buddies, which fosters a sense of community and personal growth. The school’s motto, Happiness and High Standards, is evident throughout the school culture.
Leaders have established an ambitious curriculum that is relevant and engaging for all pupils. In most subjects, they have clearly defined the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught. Teachers utilize their strong subject knowledge to present ideas clearly and check for understanding before introducing new content. This approach enables pupils to build on their knowledge effectively and achieve well over time.
However, in some subjects, the curriculum is still being finalized following recent changes in class organization. While subject leaders have set ambitious learning goals, some teachers lack clarity regarding the essential knowledge pupils need to learn and the timing of instruction. This gap can hinder pupils' ability to connect new learning with prior knowledge, resulting in less than optimal achievement in those subjects.
The school prioritizes reading, with staff well-trained to implement a structured phonics program. From an early age, children engage with rhymes and songs, and many begin to apply their phonics knowledge in reading by the end of Reception. Regular reading practice and additional support for those needing help ensure that most pupils become fluent readers by the end of Year 2.
Leaders are attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they follow the same curriculum as their peers. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident from the early years, and staff provide the necessary support to help these pupils manage their emotions and behavior effectively.
The governing body plays a crucial role in the school’s development, with staff appreciating the consideration given to their workload and well-being. High staff morale is evident, and parents express overwhelming positivity about the school, particularly regarding the approachability of leaders and the care provided by staff.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with regular training for staff to recognize signs of potential harm. Clear procedures are in place for reporting concerns, and strong links with local agencies ensure timely support for vulnerable pupils. Pupils receive education on safety, including internet safety and community risks, contributing to their overall well-being and security.
Overall, Fairfield Community Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment, with areas identified for further improvement in curriculum clarity to enhance pupil achievement across all subjects.
