Bolshaw Primary School, located in Heald Green, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 18 and 19 October 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils, including those in the early years, feel happy and safe. Students enjoy attending school and engage in harmonious play during social times, with minimal conflicts reported. They appreciate the prompt resolution of any issues, including bullying, by school leaders, who maintain high expectations for behavior.
The school emphasizes the importance of values such as honesty, empathy, aspiration, respect, and teamwork. Pupils demonstrate respect for one another and the broader school community. Leadership opportunities are available for students, such as serving as mathematics ambassadors, where they can plan clubs and create newsletters. Enrichment activities, including residential trips, contribute to building pupils' confidence, while the outdoor learning curriculum fosters resilience and cooperation skills.
Pupils exhibit high aspirations for their learning, driven by the high expectations set by staff. Overall, students learn effectively, with early years children well-prepared for Year 1. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the care and support their children receive, highlighting the strong sense of community within the school. Inspectors noted that every pupil is respected and valued for their individuality.
The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all students achieve well, and they have carefully considered the concepts and skills to be taught in each subject. Regular checks are conducted to ensure that the curriculum identifies key knowledge across various subjects, including history and geography. The mathematics curriculum is structured logically to build on prior learning effectively.
Teachers assess pupils to identify any gaps in their learning and use this information to create an accurate understanding of what students know. Professional development is provided to staff to enhance their curriculum delivery skills. However, some subject leaders have not fully identified gaps in teachers' subject knowledge, which can affect the confidence and effectiveness of instruction in certain subjects.
Reading is a priority at Bolshaw Primary School. From the start of Reception Year, children learn phonics successfully, supported by adults who promote language development through rhymes, stories, and songs. The books provided to pupils align with their phonics knowledge, and timely support is given to those who struggle with reading.
The school environment is calm, with minimal disruption to learning. Pupils engage enthusiastically in their studies and can articulate their learning experiences. In the early years, well-designed activities captivate children's interest, ensuring they start their education on a strong footing.
Leaders collaborate with parents to identify pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored support that meets individual needs. Regular checks ensure that teachers adapt the curriculum effectively for these pupils, allowing them to build a solid foundation of knowledge.
Pupils' personal development is a notable strength, as they learn about health and take on responsibilities through roles such as school council members. They participate in various extracurricular activities that foster their interests and promote respect for cultural diversity. The school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain.
Governors understand their roles and responsibilities, supporting and holding leaders accountable for educational quality. Leaders are mindful of staff workload, ensuring decisions prioritize the best interests of pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bolshaw Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding in place. Staff receive regular training to recognize potential concerns, and pupils feel confident discussing their safety with trusted adults. Overall, Bolshaw Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
