Britannia Bridge Primary School, located in Lower Ince, Wigan, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection, conducted on 25 and 26 April 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel safe and valued, adhering to core values of happiness, encouragement, aspiration, respect, and teamwork. Pupils express a strong sense of belonging and pride in their school, often stating that the motto each and every one resonates with their experiences of equality and respect.
The quality of education at Britannia Bridge is commendable, with leaders demonstrating high aspirations for pupil achievement. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed, ensuring that subject content is logically ordered and ambitious. Teachers are well-prepared to deliver engaging lessons, providing clear explanations and support to help pupils succeed. Most pupils achieve well across various subjects, although some older pupils have encountered gaps in knowledge in a few areas due to recent curriculum refinements. The school is actively addressing these gaps to ensure all pupils build on their existing knowledge effectively.
Behaviour and attitudes within the school are also rated as good. Pupils follow school rules diligently and exhibit high levels of courtesy and respect towards one another and staff. The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, with effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying swiftly. Leaders work closely with families to promote good attendance, reinforcing the importance of being present and engaged in school life.
Personal development is a key focus at Britannia Bridge, with pupils encouraged to take on various roles within the school community, such as members of the school parliament and eco team representatives. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and leadership among pupils. The school places a strong emphasis on teaching pupils about safety and health, ensuring they are well-informed about their well-being both in and out of school.
Reading is prioritized, with a well-structured phonics curriculum in place for early years. Staff are trained to deliver this curriculum effectively, enabling pupils to develop confidence in their reading abilities. By the end of Year 2, most pupils can read fluently and accurately, and older pupils enjoy exploring a diverse range of high-quality texts.
The school also recognizes the importance of staff well-being and workload, providing appropriate training to ensure teachers can deliver the curriculum effectively. Governors are knowledgeable about the school, offering valuable support and challenge to the leadership team.
Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training, ensuring they are equipped to handle safeguarding concerns appropriately. Leaders collaborate with families and external agencies to provide timely support for vulnerable pupils.
While the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, there is a need for continued focus on addressing knowledge gaps in certain subjects for older pupils. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all staff are well-equipped to support pupils in overcoming these challenges as the curriculum evolves. Overall, Britannia Bridge Primary School stands out as a supportive and effective educational institution, dedicated to the growth and success of its pupils.
