Feniscowles Primary School, located in Blackburn, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to the success of all its pupils, with leaders and staff setting high expectations that most students strive to meet. The school promotes values of inclusion, compassion, and endeavor, which are reflected in the pride pupils take in their work, even when faced with challenges. The supportive environment fostered by staff contributes significantly to the pupils' achievements over time.
Positive relationships between pupils and staff are a hallmark of the school, creating a safe and happy atmosphere for learning. Pupils feel confident that their concerns will be heard, which enhances their overall well-being. The school has established high standards for behavior, resulting in a respectful and well-mannered student body. Systems are in place to address bullying effectively, ensuring that any incidents are dealt with promptly.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities that enrich the pupils' educational experience, including fundraising events organized by the school council and participation in public speaking and debate clubs. These activities help develop essential life skills such as self-confidence and empathy, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Leaders have worked diligently to ensure that the curriculum is ambitious and accessible for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. In most subjects, there is a systematic approach to assessing what pupils know and remember, allowing for targeted support when necessary. The focus on vocabulary development across all year groups and subjects is commendable, as it helps pupils build a robust knowledge base.
Staff receive ongoing training to enhance their subject knowledge, which is crucial for effective teaching. However, there are a few subjects where some teachers may lack the necessary expertise, impacting pupil achievement in those areas. The curriculum is generally well-organized, but in a small number of subjects, there is a need for better alignment between early years learning and the Year 1 curriculum to prevent repetition of concepts.
The phonics program is implemented consistently, with leaders ensuring that pupils receive the support they need to catch up with their peers. Pupils are provided with reading materials that align with their phonics learning, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. By the end of key stage one, many pupils are proficient readers, and those in key stage two have access to a diverse range of high-quality literature.
The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on online safety and understand the importance of protecting personal information. The curriculum also includes lessons on road safety and other hazards.
Overall, Feniscowles Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent curriculum delivery and subject knowledge among staff, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering the growth and development of its students. The commitment of leaders and staff to the well-being and success of all pupils is evident, making it a positive place for learning and personal development.
