Christ Church Ainsworth Church of England Primary School in Bolton, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 12 and 13, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils enjoy attending and are enthusiastic about learning. They feel safe and confident in discussing any concerns with staff, who are committed to addressing issues promptly. The school actively educates pupils about discrimination, including racism and homophobic bullying, which helps them understand the negative impacts of such behaviors. The positive behavior of pupils contributes to a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning.
Leaders and teachers maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and achievement, which encourages students to settle quickly and work diligently. Pupils demonstrate responsibility and engage in democratic practices through school council meetings and by assisting peers and teachers as digital leaders. They also participate in various outdoor activities and competitive sports, enhancing their overall development.
The school provides a high-quality education that prepares pupils for their future. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to achieve highly across a range of subjects. Leaders carefully organize learning to help pupils retain knowledge effectively. The governing body is aware of the school's strengths and maintains a strong overview of the educational quality provided. Parents and carers express positive views about their children's education and personal development.
The curriculum engages children from the outset, facilitating their transition into learning. In the early years, staff excel in developing children's counting and calculation skills, and this structured approach continues into key stage one, where pupils build on their knowledge progressively. Reading is emphasized throughout the curriculum, with recent training in phonics ensuring effective delivery of the early reading program. Pupils enjoy daily reading and utilize their phonics knowledge to read accurately. Those needing additional support in reading receive appropriate assistance.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted some pupils' retention of prior learning, leading to gaps in knowledge, particularly in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Leaders are adapting the curriculum to help pupils catch up on missed learning, but some gaps remain evident. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well supported by trained staff who adapt teaching methods to ensure access to the curriculum. These efforts ensure that pupils with SEND achieve alongside their peers.
Lessons are rarely disrupted by low-level behavior issues, and children in the early years understand expectations clearly. Staff work collaboratively to instill responsibility and respect in all pupils, adhering to the school's behavior policy. Recently resumed activities, such as field trips and performances, contribute to pupils' wider development and community engagement. Pupils take their responsibilities seriously, participating in leadership roles and contributing to the school environment.
Staff feel valued and supported by the leadership team, particularly during the challenges posed by the pandemic. They appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being, which has fostered a collaborative atmosphere for school improvement. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff who are well-trained in identifying and addressing potential concerns. Leaders work with various agencies to ensure pupils receive necessary support.
To improve, the school must continue addressing the gaps in pupils' learning caused by the pandemic, particularly in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Leaders should focus on identifying these gaps and ensuring the adapted curriculum enables pupils to catch up effectively. Overall, Christ Church Ainsworth Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and high-quality educational experience for its pupils.
