Stalmine Primary School, located in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 25, 2023. The school is well-regarded for creating a happy and safe environment where pupils feel valued and engaged. Students participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including judo, film club, and football, which contribute to their overall enjoyment and development. The school plays an integral role in the local community, with pupils actively involved in village life, such as designing speed awareness posters and participating in local events like the lantern festival.
New students quickly integrate into the school community, receiving a warm welcome and respect from their peers. The positive relationships between pupils and teachers foster an atmosphere of kindness and support. Pupils are encouraged to meet high expectations set by school leaders, and they demonstrate good behavior during lessons and playtimes. The school has effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly.
Leaders at Stalmine Primary School are committed to the academic success of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is well-structured and thoughtfully organized, with subject leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils to learn. For instance, in art and design, the curriculum includes exposure to significant artists. However, there are areas where the progression of learning from the foundation stage to later years could be better developed.
Teachers have received training to enhance their curriculum delivery, ensuring they possess the necessary knowledge and skills across subjects. Pupils articulate their learning experiences confidently, particularly in mathematics, where they demonstrate problem-solving abilities. While pupils generally progress well, there are instances of careless presentation in their work, which leaders are beginning to address.
In lessons, teachers effectively assess pupils' understanding and provide necessary support, particularly for those with SEND. Regular checks on curriculum delivery help ensure that pupils achieve well across different year groups. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a diverse selection of books shared in classrooms. Pupils enjoy borrowing from the school's library and demonstrate fluency and comprehension in their reading.
The school has established strong partnerships with parents and external professionals to support pupils with SEND, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Pupils are encouraged to embody the school's values of being ready, respectful, and safe. The school promotes personal development through various opportunities, including leadership roles for house captains and participation in charitable events.
Governors are actively involved in the school, providing a balance of support and challenge to leaders. Staff express satisfaction with their work environment, noting that leaders consider their workload and well-being. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. The school provides pupils with knowledge about safety, including respectful relationships and awareness of potential dangers.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders need to further develop their understanding of early years learning to ensure a solid foundation for later education. Additionally, there are opportunities to raise expectations for the quality of pupils' work presentation. Supporting subject leaders in their roles will enhance the overall effectiveness of the curriculum. Overall, Stalmine Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
