Goosnargh Whitechapel Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 22, 2024. The school is characterized by a friendly and caring environment where pupils feel happy and valued. From their early years in Reception, students are taught the importance of respect and consideration for others, fostering a strong sense of community. The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and most students work diligently to meet these standards, resulting in commendable academic achievements.
Pupils exhibit sensible behavior and demonstrate a genuine enjoyment of learning. They take pride in their positive actions, often receiving recognition during assemblies for their kindness and good conduct. The supportive staff are readily available to assist students with any concerns, contributing to a nurturing atmosphere. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that allow pupils to explore their interests and talents, particularly in sports and the arts, which helps to build their self-confidence.
The curriculum at Goosnargh Whitechapel Primary School is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge progressively. The school emphasizes the importance of connecting learning across different subjects, which aids in retention and understanding. Recent data indicates that Year 6 pupils faced challenges in reading progress, partly due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the school has taken proactive steps to enhance its reading curriculum, including the introduction of a new phonics program, which has shown positive results in improving pupils' reading skills.
In the Reception class, phonics instruction begins immediately, providing a solid foundation for reading. Staff ensure that pupils engage with books that align with their phonetic knowledge, promoting effective reading habits. Feedback from pupils in Key Stage 2 reflects their enthusiasm for literature, as they express enjoyment in discussing their favorite novels and poems. The school is committed to supporting pupils who may have gaps in their reading knowledge, although there are instances where some reading strategies employed by staff could be improved to better facilitate learning.
Overall, the delivery of the curriculum is effective, with staff utilizing their subject expertise to clarify new concepts and vocabulary. Regular assessments help teachers gauge pupils' understanding, allowing for adjustments in instruction when necessary. However, there are occasions when errors in pupils' reading go unnoticed, which can impede their development as fluent readers.
The school has a robust system for identifying additional needs among pupils, ensuring that those with SEND receive appropriate support to thrive alongside their peers. Most pupils demonstrate a strong focus on their learning, with younger children quickly adapting to school routines that promote a calm and purposeful learning environment.
Attendance rates are generally high, with the school actively working with families to address any issues of persistent absence. The school also prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about diverse cultures and faiths, which broadens their understanding of the world. Older students take on responsibilities, such as serving their classmates during lunch, which fosters a sense of community and responsibility.
Governance at the school is strong, with well-informed governors ensuring effective resource management and supporting staff in their roles. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment. The school is encouraged to continue refining its phonics program to ensure all staff implement it consistently, which will further enhance pupils' reading proficiency.
