Holland Moor Primary School in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, was inspected on February 11 and 12, 2020, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a good standard across various aspects, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The previous inspection in May 2008 rated the school as outstanding, and the current judgment reflects changes in the inspection framework and the school’s development over the years. The school had not been inspected for twelve years due to its outstanding status, which exempted it from routine inspections.
Pupils at Holland Moor Primary School exhibit a positive attitude towards their education, as evidenced by their smiles upon arrival and their enjoyment of school activities. They appreciate the ambition of school leaders for their success and engage actively in sports and play. The school fosters strong friendships among pupils, who feel safe and valued. They report that any issues, including bullying, are addressed promptly by staff. The school encourages pupil involvement through initiatives like the ‘voice club,’ which organizes charity events, and offers a free breakfast club that helps start their day positively. Various extracurricular clubs, including art and gardening, contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
The school’s leadership sets high expectations, and most pupils achieve the expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of Year 6. The curriculum is ambitious and aligns with national standards, with clear plans outlining what pupils need to learn and when. Teachers effectively build on prior knowledge, ensuring that pupils grasp concepts before progressing. Staff training supports teachers in delivering the curriculum effectively, and collaboration among colleagues is encouraged.
In the early years, staff focus on developing communication skills and independence, creating a nurturing environment rich in vocabulary. Children enjoy engaging activities that stimulate their curiosity and creativity. Most children reach a good level of development by the end of Reception, preparing them for Year 1. The school also provides a calm learning environment, particularly beneficial for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), who are well-supported and included in all aspects of school life.
Despite the school’s strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders have not fully reviewed the impact of their subjects on pupil learning, which limits their ability to provide necessary support. Additionally, there was a decline in the proportion of pupils meeting the expected standard in the Year 1 phonics screening check in 2019. Leaders have taken steps to address this by focusing on phonics instruction from the start, but some struggling readers are given books that are too challenging, hindering their progress.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with older pupils expressing enthusiasm for recommended books. Reading areas in classrooms encourage diverse reading habits, and pupils’ vocabulary development supports their learning in other subjects. The school effectively identifies barriers to learning and provides support for pupils with SEND, ensuring they achieve well from their starting points.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of neglect or abuse. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including online. Overall, Holland Moor Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment, with clear areas identified for further development to enhance pupil outcomes.
