Water Primary School, located in Rossendale, Lancashire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 18 and 19, 2023. The school provides a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and happy. The close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging among students, who appreciate the learning opportunities and outdoor activities offered by the school. Teachers maintain high expectations for student behavior and academic achievement, encouraging pupils to strive for recognition in their classrooms. This positive atmosphere contributes to the overall well-being and success of the students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The curriculum at Water Primary School is broad and knowledge-rich, with leaders having made significant improvements since the last inspection. They have a clear understanding of the strengths and areas for development within the curriculum, ensuring that pupils learn effectively. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a well-structured phonics program in place that begins in the Reception class. Staff are dedicated to helping pupils who may struggle with reading, providing targeted support to ensure they catch up quickly. As a result, most pupils achieve fluency in reading by the time they reach key stage two.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior throughout the school, showing respect and politeness towards staff and peers. There is minimal disruption during lessons, allowing for a focused learning environment. The school promotes personal development through various activities, including charity work and leadership roles for older students. This approach helps pupils understand their responsibilities within the community and aspire to various professions.
Leaders and staff are proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs. They collaborate closely with parents and external professionals to ensure these students can access the full curriculum and benefit from the school's offerings. The school has effective strategies in place to support these pupils, enabling them to achieve well academically and socially.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, teachers occasionally select activities that do not effectively support the acquisition of new knowledge and concepts. This can hinder some pupils' learning experiences. Additionally, there are instances where teachers do not promptly address errors and misunderstandings, which can lead to unchecked mistakes that affect learning. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers are equipped with the skills necessary to select appropriate activities and to identify and address misconceptions swiftly.
The safeguarding arrangements at Water Primary School are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training in child protection, and there are effective processes for reporting and monitoring welfare concerns. Pupils are taught about safety in various contexts, including online risks and local dangers, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves.
Overall, Water Primary School is a good educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, and with targeted efforts in specific areas, the school can further enhance the quality of education it provides. The positive feedback from pupils, parents, and staff reflects the school's dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment.
