Victoria Road Primary School in Runcorn, Cheshire, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on the 5th and 6th of March 2024. Pupils at the school are happy and enjoy their time there, fully embracing the school’s values of care, achieve, respect, and enjoy. These values are evident in the behavior of the students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, with older pupils serving as positive role models for younger students, helping them learn cooperative play and appropriate conduct.
The school maintains high expectations for all pupils' learning, including those in the specially resourced provision for pupils with special educational needs. The leadership has a clear vision to prepare students for their future, and pupils strive to do their best, taking pride in their achievements. The school offers a variety of enriching experiences, including trips and visits that enhance pupils' understanding of the curriculum. After-school activities, such as football, chess, and art club, are also popular among students.
Victoria Road Primary School has developed an ambitious curriculum that broadens pupils' horizons. The key knowledge that students will acquire from early years through to Year 6 is clearly defined. The curriculum is delivered with expertise and enthusiasm, with staff designing learning activities that help pupils connect new content with prior knowledge. The focus on vocabulary development supports language skills across subjects, and assessment strategies are effectively used to identify and address any gaps in learning.
The early years curriculum is particularly well-designed, providing exciting learning opportunities that foster curiosity. Staff know the children well and tailor activities to maximize engagement, ensuring that children are well-prepared for the challenges of Year 1. The phonics curriculum is taught in a structured manner, with books matched to the sounds pupils know, enabling them to develop secure phonics knowledge. Staff provide prompt support to those who struggle, helping them catch up quickly.
The school has high expectations for pupils with special educational needs, quickly identifying their needs and adapting the curriculum accordingly. This ensures that these pupils learn alongside their peers and achieve well. The personal development program is well thought out, teaching pupils essential skills such as basic first aid and encouraging them to take on leadership roles within the school and community.
Staff at Victoria Road Primary School feel well-supported by leadership, and most are proud to work there. Leaders consider staff workload and well-being when implementing changes, which has led to improvements in curriculum delivery and feedback processes. Governors fulfill their duties diligently, providing effective support and challenging the school to continually improve.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. While the school excels in many areas, there are a few subjects where opportunities for pupils to revisit and consolidate earlier knowledge could be improved. Addressing this will help ensure that all pupils can build securely on their previous learning. Overall, Victoria Road Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prepares its pupils well for their future endeavors.
