Todmorden CofE J I & N School, located in Todmorden, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6 and 7, 2022. The pupils express great enjoyment in their school experience, highlighting that lessons are engaging and filled with opportunities for physical activity. They respond positively to the high expectations set by the school leaders, governors, and staff, taking pride in the school’s values represented by the kite emblem, which embodies love, honesty, hope, and perseverance. The school promotes a culture of mutual respect and care, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and politeness. They are sensible in their movements around the school and support one another, particularly in the playground. The collaborative spirit among pupils is evident, especially in how younger students assist each other with reading. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed effectively. The school fosters a strong sense of fairness and respect, with pupils disapproving of unkind behavior towards those who are different.
The school’s leadership emphasizes the importance of exposing pupils to the wider world through a variety of enrichment activities, ensuring inclusivity in participation. Pupils show respect for others and the environment, actively engaging in fundraising for causes they care about. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, well-structured from Years 1 to 6 across all subjects. Leaders have identified essential knowledge blocks for pupils to learn and remember, aiding teachers in planning lessons that build on prior knowledge. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and present information in engaging ways, addressing gaps in pupils’ learning through regular recaps and revisits.
In the early years, children receive a solid foundation in reading and mathematics, with a curriculum designed to establish essential skills for future learning. However, there is a noted gap in the early years curriculum for other subjects, which could better prepare children for Year 1. Reading is prioritized, with daily reading sessions and a well-stocked library that encourages pupils to explore various books. The school promotes a culture of reading, with pupils reading to adults weekly and receiving additional support when needed.
Mathematics instruction is structured to build knowledge gradually, with daily practice and problem-solving activities. Pupils take their leadership roles seriously, participating in worship assemblies and contributing to school initiatives. They enjoy various school visits and after-school activities, which are regularly updated to maintain engagement.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with well-trained staff who understand the risks pupils may face. Leaders ensure that pupils have multiple avenues for seeking help, fostering trust in the adults within the school. The curriculum incorporates safety education, reinforced through assemblies and external organization visits, equipping pupils with knowledge on how to stay safe, including online.
While the school excels in many areas, it is recommended that leaders identify key knowledge for science and foundation subjects in the early years to strengthen curriculum progression. Overall, Todmorden CofE J I & N School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, promoting both academic and personal growth.
