Ingol Community Primary School, located in Preston, Lancashire, was inspected on 12 and 13 October 2021. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive learning environment for pupils. The school is characterized by a calm and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, settle in quickly and thrive. The curriculum is engaging and well-structured, providing pupils with a broad range of subjects from Reception to Year 6. Leaders have identified key knowledge that pupils need to learn, and the detailed curriculum plans help teachers build on prior knowledge effectively.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and attitudes towards learning. They understand and adhere to the behavior rules, listen attentively in lessons, and feel safe within the school environment. The school fosters a sense of community, encouraging pupils to contribute positively, such as cooking for the homeless and taking on responsibilities like caring for the school rabbit. The school promotes personal development through various activities, including fundraising for charities and learning about different cultures and faiths.
The quality of education is further enhanced by effective teaching practices. Teachers provide support to pupils who struggle with their learning and ensure that they practice previously learned material to reinforce their knowledge. This approach has proven successful, particularly in subjects like mathematics, history, and science. The school has a strong focus on reading, with phonics being taught from the start in Reception. However, there are some inconsistencies in phonics instruction, as not all staff have received adequate training, leading to occasional mispronunciations that pupils may mimic.
Leadership and management at Ingol Community Primary School are effective, with leaders being proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of pupils, especially those with SEND. The school works closely with parents and external professionals to provide the necessary support. Staff feel well-supported in their roles, and governors actively engage with school leaders to ensure the school operates effectively.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff receiving regular training to recognize signs of abuse and neglect. The curriculum includes lessons on safety and healthy relationships, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about how to protect themselves. The school has established good relationships with various agencies to provide timely support for pupils and families in need.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some curriculum plans lack precise details about the specific knowledge that pupils need to acquire, particularly in a few subjects. This can hinder pupils' learning progression. Additionally, the phonics instruction requires enhancement to ensure all staff are equipped with the necessary skills to teach effectively.
Overall, Ingol Community Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, promoting both academic and personal growth. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success. The positive feedback from the inspection highlights the school's dedication to fostering a safe and engaging learning atmosphere, while also recognizing the need for ongoing development in certain areas.
