Nestled in the heart of Ramsbottom, Lancashire, St Andrew's Church of England Primary School has recently been recognized for its commendable performance in the latest Ofsted inspection, held on October 6 and 7, 2021. The school has maintained its overall effectiveness rating of Good, a testament to its commitment to providing a nurturing and high-quality educational environment for its pupils.
Pupils at St Andrew's express a genuine enjoyment of their school experience. The staff have cultivated a warm and caring atmosphere, which parents appreciate for its family feel. One parent highlighted that the school prioritizes the children's happiness, well-being, and health at the core of its educational approach. This sentiment is echoed by the pupils, who feel safe and supported, knowing that their teachers are always available to assist them with any concerns.
The leadership team at St Andrew's sets high expectations for all students, fostering a culture of hard work and good behavior. The use of spotted tickets and house points to reward positive attitudes has proven effective, resulting in pupils who are not only diligent but also respectful towards one another. The school has implemented structured playtime activities that further enhance teamwork and social skills among students.
St Andrew's has developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to the diverse needs of its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Subject leaders have crafted well-ordered plans that ensure continuity in learning from the Reception Year through to Year 6. This structured approach has led to pupils achieving well across various subjects, with notable proficiency in areas such as art, where older pupils demonstrate advanced skills in proportion and shape.
However, the inspection did identify that a small number of curriculum leaders require further support to enhance their subject knowledge and ensure effective implementation of the curriculum. Addressing this gap will be crucial in ensuring that all pupils receive a comprehensive education.
Reading is at the forefront of St Andrew's curriculum. The school engages children in storytelling activities from the Reception Year, fostering a love for reading and expanding their vocabulary. Daily phonics sessions in Key Stage 1 help pupils develop essential reading skills, with well-trained staff providing additional support for those who struggle. The school's commitment to reading is evident, as older pupils express enjoyment in their reading choices, supported by a rich selection of high-quality texts in their classrooms.
St Andrew's places a strong emphasis on personal development, encouraging pupils to engage in leadership roles and charitable activities. The school community takes pride in its charitable efforts, having recently raised funds for organizations such as Cancer Research UK and the Ramsbottom Pantry. This involvement not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also helps pupils understand the importance of helping others.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff well-trained to recognize and respond to any signs of abuse. Leaders ensure that all adults working in the school are thoroughly vetted, creating a safe environment for pupils. Additionally, pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, both online and in the wider world.
St Andrew's Church of England Primary School stands out as a beacon of educational excellence in Ramsbottom. With its strong leadership, dedicated staff, and a curriculum designed to meet the needs of all pupils, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success. As it addresses the areas for improvement identified in the inspection, St Andrew's is set to further enhance its reputation as a nurturing and effective learning environment for all its students.
