Clifton Primary School, located in Ansdell, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on July 17 and 18, 2024. Pupils at Clifton Primary School express pride in their school and thrive in its calm atmosphere, which is fostered by positive relationships with caring staff. The school environment contributes to the happiness of the pupils, particularly in the early years, where children show kindness and flourish as they begin their educational journey.
The school has high aspirations for all its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils respond well to the expectations set for their achievement and conduct, resulting in commendable academic performance and exemplary behavior throughout the school. Pupils demonstrate impeccable manners and actively engage in various extracurricular activities, such as music, chess, and sports clubs, which help them develop their talents and interests.
Pupils also play an active role in improving the school through their positions as school councillors, reading buddies, sports leaders, and science ambassadors. They participate in fundraising for local and national charities and enjoy educational trips to museums and geographical landmarks, which broaden their understanding of the world. These experiences, including adventurous activities during residential stays, help pupils grow into independent young individuals.
The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that thoughtfully outlines the essential knowledge pupils should acquire and the appropriate timing for this learning. This approach ensures that pupils achieve well across a wide range of subjects, with their knowledge building securely over time. The school effectively prepares children in the early years for the next stage of their education, ensuring they are ready for key stage one.
Staff at Clifton Primary School utilize their subject knowledge to create engaging activities that facilitate successful learning. The school accurately identifies the additional needs of pupils with special educational needs and provides the necessary support for them to learn alongside their peers. Regular assessments are conducted to monitor pupils' understanding, although there are instances where staff may not promptly address gaps in knowledge or misconceptions. This can lead to some pupils progressing to new content before they are fully prepared.
From the start of the Reception Year, children begin learning to read, with staff delivering the phonics program effectively. The school provides resources and training to support staff in this area, which helps pupils who may have gaps in their phonics knowledge to catch up quickly. The reading materials are well-matched to the sounds pupils have learned, fostering confidence and fluency in their reading abilities.
Pupils engage attentively during lessons and collaborate with one another in their learning. The school promotes a culture of compassion and emotional resilience, addressing important topics such as peer pressure and bereavement through meaningful literature. Most pupils maintain regular attendance, and the school offers effective support to those needing assistance with their conduct and attendance, resulting in positive outcomes.
The governing body possesses a clear understanding of the school's performance and provides appropriate support and challenge. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to enhance its practices by addressing the identified gaps in learning more promptly, ensuring that all pupils build a solid foundation of knowledge as they progress through their education.
