Norden Community Primary School, located in Rochdale, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2023. The school has a positive atmosphere where pupils take pride in their environment and enjoy their time with friends. They exhibit good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school, demonstrating happiness, politeness, confidence, and respect. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment ensures that every child is encouraged to perform to the best of their abilities, resulting in commendable academic achievements.
Pupils feel secure within the school community, knowing that staff members genuinely care for their well-being. They are aware that they can approach adults with any concerns, and the school effectively addresses incidents of bullying or misbehavior. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore musical instruments, participate in sports clubs, and engage in creative pursuits such as acting and pottery. Older students are given leadership opportunities, which include roles such as well-being ambassadors and play leaders, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The curriculum at Norden Community Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders and staff having clearly defined what pupils should learn and when. However, there are a few subjects where this clarity is lacking, leading to some uncertainty among teachers regarding content delivery. This gap can result in pupils developing incomplete knowledge in certain areas. Nevertheless, staff are knowledgeable about their subjects and introduce new concepts effectively. Assessment strategies are employed to monitor pupil understanding and retention.
In the early years, children develop strong vocabulary and communication skills, preparing them for future learning. The phonics program is well-implemented, ensuring that children receive the necessary support to succeed in reading from their first day. Pupils throughout the school enjoy reading, and those with special educational needs are fully included in the curriculum, receiving timely support to help them achieve their potential.
Behavior across the school is commendable, with pupils understanding the significance of maintaining a conducive learning environment. Disruptions are rare, allowing for uninterrupted learning. The school provides a rich array of activities that equip pupils with essential life skills and knowledge about diversity and citizenship. They engage in community support initiatives and learn about healthy living and respectful relationships in an age-appropriate manner.
Staff morale is high, with leaders considering their workload and well-being in decision-making processes. Staff members feel comfortable discussing any concerns with school leaders. The governing body plays an effective role, possessing a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, and they are actively involved in the school's operations.
The safeguarding arrangements at Norden Community Primary School are robust. Staff receive regular training, and there are clear procedures for raising concerns about pupil welfare. Leaders ensure that families receive necessary support promptly and collaborate effectively with external agencies. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including online environments.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders must ensure that the curriculum is clearly defined across all subjects, enabling teachers to design learning experiences that build knowledge progressively. This will help pupils retain and recall information more effectively over time. Overall, Norden Community Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
