Catforth Primary School, located in Preston, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 14, 2023. The school emphasizes its motto, To be the best that we can be, and encourages all pupils to meet high expectations for academic achievement. The school effectively prepares students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, for their next educational stages.
Behavioral expectations are clearly communicated, and children in the Nursery and Reception classes quickly learn to follow adult instructions and treat each other with respect. The school provides strong support for pupils with emotional difficulties, ensuring that learning is rarely disrupted by behavioral issues. Positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a happy and safe school environment.
Pupils at Catforth Primary School are given various responsibilities, such as being class monitors or members of the school council. They engage in charitable activities, including donations for local food banks, which fosters empathy and compassion among students. The curriculum is well-organized from Nursery through to the end of key stage two, with a clear identification of key knowledge across most subjects. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum does not fully cover the national curriculum content, which limits the depth of knowledge pupils can achieve in those areas.
The school provides teachers with appropriate training to enhance their subject knowledge and to support pupils with additional needs. Learning activities are designed to build on prior knowledge, and strategies are in place for teachers to assess what pupils have learned. Many pupils, including those with special educational needs, achieve well academically.
Reading is a strong focus at Catforth Primary School, with staff effectively teaching phonics. Pupils quickly learn letter sounds, and additional support is provided to those who need it, ensuring they keep pace with their peers. The school ensures that pupils read a wide range of books, including poetry and nonfiction, which helps to broaden their vocabulary. By the end of key stage one, many pupils are fluent and confident readers.
Pupils are encouraged to treat others as they would like to be treated, and when behavioral issues arise, timely support is provided to prevent recurrence. The school offers effective training for staff to assist pupils with special educational needs. Opportunities for wider development are carefully selected, promoting the importance of fitness and healthy eating, as well as respect for diversity.
The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging the school to enhance educational quality. Communication with parents and carers is strong, providing guidance on how they can support their children's learning at home. Staff report that their workload and well-being are well-managed, contributing to a positive school community.
The safeguarding arrangements at Catforth Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is committed to refining its curriculum to ensure comprehensive coverage of the national curriculum, particularly in the subjects where gaps have been identified. This commitment to improvement reflects the school's dedication to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils. Overall, Catforth Primary School continues to demonstrate its status as a good school, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and community engagement.
