Astmoor Primary School, located in Runcorn, Cheshire, has undergone a significant transformation since its previous inspection in March 2017, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The recent inspection in September 2019 has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
The school is characterized by a caring and nurturing environment where the core values of respect, readiness, and safety are deeply embedded in the school culture. Pupils are encouraged to embody these values, and staff maintain high expectations for all students, promoting a strong work ethic. The behaviour of pupils is commendable, with many expressing that bullying is infrequent and that staff are quick to address any issues that arise. The school provides a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable discussing their concerns, and playtimes are well-supervised, allowing for a range of activities that contribute to a positive school experience.
Leadership at Astmoor Primary is proactive in prioritizing the personal development of pupils. Opportunities for responsibility, such as participation in the school council, help students understand their role in contributing positively to society. The school has established a meaningful connection with a school in South Africa, which further enriches the pupils' understanding of global citizenship.
The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders having carefully designed it to ensure that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge across various subjects. Teachers collaborate to share best practices, and they possess the skills required to facilitate effective learning. The needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are met effectively, allowing them to access the full curriculum and achieve success in their learning.
Pupils demonstrate strong writing skills, showing a good grasp of spelling, punctuation, and grammar, which is reflected in their performance in national tests. The teaching of phonics and reading is prioritized, with a logical progression that enables pupils to develop fluency and comprehension. The school has achieved results in line with national averages in phonics screening checks, indicating effective early literacy instruction.
In the early years, children are supported in developing their mathematics, language, and communication skills. Staff foster strong relationships and provide a well-resourced environment for learning. However, while the proportion of children reaching a good level of development is improving, it remains below the national average, indicating that some children may not be fully prepared for the Year 1 curriculum.
Pupils have reported improvements in classroom behaviour since the last inspection, allowing them to focus on their work without disruptions. The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by warmth and respect, contributing to a positive learning environment. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, which enhance pupils' personal development and engagement.
Safeguarding measures at Astmoor Primary are robust, with all staff trained to prioritize the safety of pupils. Leaders collaborate with local authorities and agencies to ensure that vulnerable pupils receive timely support. The school’s family support worker has established strong connections with parents, facilitating quick access to necessary assistance for families in need.
Despite the many strengths of the school, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to clarify the history curriculum to ensure that pupils retain more knowledge about the historical periods they study. Additionally, while the early years curriculum has seen improvements, further development is needed to ensure that more pupils are adequately prepared for the demands of Year 1.
Overall, Astmoor Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, creating a positive and effective learning environment for its pupils. The commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and safeguarding reflects the school’s dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching educational experience.
