Great Wood Primary School, located in Morecambe, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 3 and 4, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express pride in their attendance and enthusiasm for learning. They appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their educators, which contribute to their overall achievement. The school motto, to aim high and make a difference, is embraced by both pupils and staff, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence in education.
The leadership team has established a clear behavior policy that is well understood by the pupils. They emphasize the importance of good behavior, and students enjoy the positive reinforcement they receive. On the rare occasions when behavior does not meet expectations, staff provide constructive guidance to help pupils improve. Pupils report that bullying is not a concern, and they feel confident that staff will address any issues effectively. The school promotes kindness and respect among students, who are encouraged to share resources and take on responsibilities.
Great Wood Primary School offers a diverse range of experiences that enhance learning, including immersive history days and educational trips. The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully structured, ensuring progression from the Reception Year through to Year 6. Leaders have high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Effective assessment practices are in place to quickly identify and address any gaps in learning.
Reading is prioritized from the start of the Reception Year, with phonics instruction enabling pupils to read confidently. The school has successfully cultivated a love for reading among students, who recognize its benefits. Mathematics skills are developed early on, with a clear progression in learning as pupils advance through the key stages. Pupils demonstrate good behavior and focus during lessons, contributing to a positive classroom atmosphere.
Attendance at Great Wood Primary School is consistently high, with leaders actively working to remove barriers to attendance. They regularly review individual attendance and maintain communication with parents. However, there is room for improvement in analyzing attendance data for specific groups, such as disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, to ensure targeted support.
The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in extracurricular activities, although tracking attendance at these events could be enhanced to better support disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs. Leaders emphasize the development of resilience and independence among pupils, encouraging them to take on responsibilities and contribute to their local community.
Staff well-being is a priority for leaders, who consider workload in their decision-making processes. They foster a collaborative culture among staff, promoting effective use of time and resources. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff well-informed about procedures for identifying and reporting concerns. Strong relationships with local agencies ensure appropriate support for pupils and families.
In summary, Great Wood Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, effective leadership, and a commitment to high standards. While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for further improvement, particularly in analyzing attendance data for specific groups and enhancing tracking of extracurricular participation. Overall, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory in supporting the learning and development of its pupils.
