Larkholme Primary School, located in Fleetwood, Lancashire, has been recognized for its effective action in maintaining the standards established during its previous inspection. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils are warmly welcomed by calm and caring staff. This positive atmosphere contributes to the happiness of the students, who feel valued and accepted. The school sets high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every child strives to achieve their best from their individual starting points. As a result, pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education.
Behavior at Larkholme Primary School is commendable, with pupils demonstrating respect for one another both in lessons and during playtimes. The school promotes a culture of recognition, where students enjoy receiving rewards and ‘golden tickets’ for their good behavior and hard work. Additionally, the school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as being members of the school council or sports leaders, which fosters a sense of responsibility and resilience among the students.
Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that pupils appreciate. They express excitement about various visitors and clubs available, as well as outdoor learning experiences that enhance their understanding of the natural world and develop teamwork skills. The school has faced challenges since its last inspection but has emerged with greater stability. Staff members speak positively about the support they receive, which helps them focus on enhancing pupils’ learning while managing their workload effectively.
The curriculum at Larkholme Primary School has been thoroughly reviewed and revised across all areas, including early years education. It reflects the school’s ambition to provide a high-quality education, with key knowledge and skills clearly identified and organized to facilitate long-term retention. In most subjects, staff regularly assess pupils’ learning and adapt their teaching accordingly. However, in a few newer subjects, the school is still developing its assessment strategies, which can occasionally hinder teachers from identifying and addressing gaps in pupils’ knowledge.
Reading is prioritized at the school, with staff well-trained to support pupils in their reading journey. They quickly identify when children in early years and key stage one struggle with the phonics program and provide the necessary assistance to help them catch up. This approach enables pupils to read with increasing fluency and confidence. Staff are attentive to the individual needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs, ensuring that all students can access the same curriculum.
The school emphasizes the importance of regular attendance, instilling in pupils the understanding that being present is essential for learning. This focus has resulted in high attendance rates for the majority of students, with effective support provided to families of those who struggle with attendance. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards their work, and staff guide them in learning the school’s rules and routines from the outset, addressing any behavioral issues promptly to maintain a conducive learning environment.
Larkholme Primary School also prioritizes the broader development of its pupils, teaching them about diverse faiths and cultures. Students engage in visits to places of worship and learn about the significance of respecting others. They are educated on healthy relationships and safety, including online risks. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Larkholme Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a supportive and high-quality educational experience for its students.
