West Street Community Primary School in Colne, Lancashire, has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with leaders and staff maintaining high expectations for all pupils. The relationships between adults and pupils are notably strong, fostering a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe and happy. Pupils express their enjoyment of school, highlighting the engaging learning experiences they encounter daily. Parents also commend the school for its supportive atmosphere and the dedication of its staff.
The quality of education at West Street is good, with a well-structured curriculum that covers a broad range of subjects. Teachers are knowledgeable about what pupils need to learn at each stage, allowing them to plan lessons that build knowledge progressively. Subject leaders ensure that teachers have the necessary expertise to deliver their subjects effectively, and this is reflected in the pupils' understanding and retention of new information. The early years provision is also rated as good, with a focus on developing children's language and mathematical skills, leading to positive outcomes by the end of the Reception Year.
Pupils at West Street have numerous opportunities for personal development, participating in various extracurricular activities, including festivals, sports competitions, and community events. These experiences are designed to prepare them for future life, promoting skills such as teamwork and responsibility. Behaviour in the school is good, with staff providing support to those who need it, ensuring that all pupils can focus on their learning. Pupils are aware of what bullying is and feel confident that their teachers would address any incidents effectively.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The learning environment for phonics in the early years sometimes hinders children's ability to concentrate and engage fully. Leaders are aware of this and are working to enhance the learning environment to better support phonics development. Additionally, while governors are proactive in questioning leaders about achievements in reading, writing, and mathematics, they need to broaden their focus to include other subjects to hold leaders accountable for the overall curriculum's effectiveness.
Reading is a top priority at West Street, with leaders recognizing the need to improve outcomes, particularly for boys. The reading curriculum has been enhanced, fostering a love of reading among pupils, which in turn supports their writing skills. Young children begin phonics education in the Nursery class, with teachers providing targeted support for those who struggle. The school also emphasizes physical education, with pupils achieving well in this subject.
Pupils demonstrate politeness and respect, moving calmly around the school and settling into lessons effectively. Attendance has improved and is close to the national average. The school offers a wide range of experiences outside the classroom, helping pupils develop essential skills and attitudes for life beyond school. They learn about various faiths and cultures, preparing them well for life in modern Britain.
The safeguarding arrangements at West Street are effective, with clear procedures in place for staff to report concerns about pupils' welfare. Staff receive regular training to recognize risks and work collaboratively with external agencies to support children and families in need. Overall, West Street Community Primary School is a good school with a strong commitment to the education and well-being of its pupils, although there are areas identified for further development to enhance the learning experience.
