Woodside Primary School in Runcorn, Cheshire, underwent an inspection on June 8 and 9, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Woodside Primary School express happiness and a sense of safety within the school environment. They enjoy learning and appreciate the opportunity to explore new concepts alongside their peers. Strong relationships between pupils and staff foster a trusting atmosphere where students feel comfortable discussing any concerns. The school effectively addresses instances of bullying, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly.
Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and respect, contributing to a harmonious learning environment. This positive atmosphere encourages students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to engage actively in their education. The school promotes cultural diversity and instills a sense of citizenship in pupils, who participate in community service activities such as litter picking and visiting local elderly residents.
Woodside Primary offers a well-structured curriculum that is ambitious for all students, including those with special educational needs. Leaders prioritize the development of pupils' language and communication skills across various subjects. Most subject leaders possess strong knowledge of their areas and provide effective support to teachers. However, some newer subject leaders are still developing their skills, which can impact the delivery of the curriculum in certain subjects.
Teachers generally conduct thorough assessments of pupil learning, although there are a few subjects where these checks are less effective. In these cases, teachers may lack a clear understanding of what pupils have retained or forgotten, which can hinder the progression of learning. The school has prioritized reading, implementing a structured phonics curriculum that benefits both pupils and children in the early years. Regular assessments ensure that reading materials align with pupils' knowledge of letters and sounds, resulting in clear and fluent reading among older students.
The school provides specialized training for staff to support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that these students receive the necessary assistance to access the curriculum. The behavior of pupils is well-managed, allowing for a focused learning environment. Children in the Reception class demonstrate good listening skills and respond well to instructions.
Woodside Primary has established a comprehensive personal development curriculum that teaches pupils about healthy living and democratic principles. Students engage in leadership roles through various initiatives, including the school council and eco council. They learn about fairness and the impact of discriminatory behavior, enhancing their understanding of social issues.
Parents and carers view the school as a caring community, and staff echo this sentiment, noting the approachability of leaders and governors. The governing body is well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders closely monitoring vulnerable pupils and ensuring staff are trained to recognize and address potential safeguarding concerns.
Overall, Woodside Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of subject leadership and assessment practices, the school is on a positive trajectory, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.
