Weaverham Forest Primary School, located in Northwich, Cheshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 21 and 22, 2022. The school has a positive reputation among pupils and parents alike, with many expressing satisfaction with the friendly and supportive environment. Pupils enjoy attending the school and have established strong relationships with the caring staff. They demonstrate politeness and respect towards one another, contributing to a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. The school provides a variety of fun activities in the playground, and pupils feel confident that any incidents of bullying would be addressed promptly by the staff.
The leadership team at Weaverham Forest Primary School has high expectations for its pupils and has developed a curriculum that is both ambitious and engaging. Pupils are motivated by the projects they undertake and generally achieve well in their lessons. They are eager to discuss their learning and take pride in the responsibilities assigned to them, such as being sports leaders or school councillors. The school encourages pupils to participate in initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility.
The curriculum is designed to help pupils build knowledge systematically across subjects. In most areas, pupils’ learning progresses logically, allowing them to make connections between concepts. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum does not build on prior knowledge as effectively, which can hinder pupils' overall achievement. The school has a strong reading culture, with leaders ensuring that pupils develop a love for reading through a diverse selection of books. Daily phonics sessions are well-structured, and staff provide additional support for pupils who may struggle with phonics, ensuring that they can catch up effectively.
The early years provision is robust, preparing children well for their future education. Staff focus on developing communication skills and fostering social interactions among children. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who require extra support, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. While most pupils with SEND achieve well, some parents feel that their concerns are not adequately addressed, indicating a need for improved communication and partnership with families.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior during lessons and throughout the school, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Attendance is high, although a small number of pupils are frequently absent, which affects their learning. Leaders need to take more timely action to address attendance issues to minimize the impact on these pupils' education.
The school prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about health, safety, and cultural diversity. Staff are supportive of each other, and governors are well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They utilize external assessments to ensure that the quality of education remains high.
The safeguarding arrangements at Weaverham Forest Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety and well-being. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of potential harm and are confident in raising concerns. The curriculum includes lessons on staying safe, including online safety.
To enhance the quality of education further, leaders should ensure that all subjects follow a logical sequence of learning and respond more promptly to declining attendance rates. Strengthening partnerships with parents of pupils with SEND will also be crucial in providing the best support for these students. Overall, Weaverham Forest Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a good quality of education and fostering a positive environment for its pupils.
