Sabden Primary School, located in Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 3, 2021. The school is characterized by a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Students expressed their appreciation for the staff, highlighting their willingness to assist with any concerns. The positive attitude towards learning is evident, as pupils understand the importance of hard work and demonstrate this through their engagement in lessons. Most students perform well academically, retaining knowledge effectively and building upon it.
Behavior within the school is commendable, with pupils displaying politeness towards adults and fostering good relationships with peers during break times. Instances of bullying are reported to be minimal, and students are confident that school leaders will address any issues that arise. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore interests beyond the standard curriculum. Activities such as knitting, samba drumming, and participation in the 'race to school challenge' promote high attendance and engagement. Pupils also take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council, and demonstrate an understanding of fundamental British values, including democracy.
The leadership team and governors have a clear vision for the education provided at Sabden Primary School. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. Teachers effectively select activities that facilitate learning and monitor pupils' understanding, providing additional support when necessary. The reading curriculum is particularly strong, with early interventions in place to ensure that children develop essential reading skills from the outset. Staff in the nursery focus on communication skills, while a structured phonics program in the reception class helps most children grasp the necessary sounds before advancing to Year 1.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some younger pupils who struggle with reading occasionally engage with texts that are too challenging, which can hinder their fluency. Staff need to enhance their assessment practices to ensure that these pupils are adequately prepared before progressing to more difficult reading materials. Additionally, while the curriculum is well-planned in most subjects, the details regarding the content and sequence in language subjects require further clarification to ensure comprehensive knowledge and skill development.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards their work, contributing to their successful learning experiences. They behave well in class and are respectful throughout the school. Leaders maintain high expectations for conduct and provide a variety of engaging activities that extend beyond the classroom. These include fundraising for charities and attending theater performances, enriching the educational experience.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is effective, with leaders identifying needs accurately and collaborating with parents to create suitable support plans. Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders being approachable and mindful of workload management. Governors are well-informed and actively engage in monitoring the school's performance, ensuring accountability.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with effective systems for identifying and addressing concerns. Staff training equips teachers to recognize potential safeguarding issues, and pupils receive guidance on staying safe in various situations, including online safety. Overall, while Sabden Primary School continues to excel in many areas, addressing the identified areas for improvement will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
