Fishwick Primary School, located in Preston, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 15 and 16, 2021. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, largely due to the supportive nature of the teachers. Students express a clear understanding of the high expectations set by their educators, which fosters a culture of respect and good behavior among peers. The school has implemented a system where pupils can earn points for positive behavior, reinforcing a sense of community and accountability.
Pupils at Fishwick Primary School take pride in their responsibilities, such as caring for the school’s chickens and participating in various charity initiatives. Their efforts to support the community during the COVID-19 pandemic have been acknowledged by local authorities, including recognition from the mayor. This involvement not only enhances their sense of belonging but also instills values of empathy and social responsibility.
The curriculum at Fishwick Primary School is broad and ambitious, with leaders identifying essential knowledge and skills for pupils to learn. This structured approach allows students to build on their existing knowledge and practice their learning effectively. For instance, in physical education, pupils rehearse fundamental movements before applying them in more complex tasks. Subject leaders have designed curriculums that encourage revisiting previous learning, which is particularly evident in mathematics, where students recap essential concepts before progressing.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some subject leaders have faced challenges in supporting teachers to enhance their subject-specific pedagogical knowledge. This gap has resulted in a few subjects lacking the necessary expertise for effective curriculum delivery. To address this, school leaders are encouraged to provide additional support to teachers, ensuring they have the resources and knowledge to teach the curriculum effectively.
The school’s reading curriculum has been strengthened with the help of the local authority, establishing a consistent approach to teaching reading across all year groups. Leaders have invested in a diverse range of texts to meet the varied needs of pupils, including those who speak English as an additional language. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support to improve their reading skills, ensuring inclusivity in the learning process.
Teachers deliver the early reading and phonics curriculum in a systematic manner, which aids pupils in learning new sounds effectively. The selection of reading materials is carefully considered to align with the sounds taught in class, promoting accurate reading skills. Staff receive regular training in phonics, enabling them to support pupils who may struggle with reading.
Pupils demonstrate positive behavior in lessons and actively engage in discussions, showing respect for differing opinions. The classroom environment is conducive to learning, allowing teachers to deliver lessons without disruption. Beyond the core curriculum, pupils have opportunities to expand their knowledge through organized visits to significant cultural sites, enhancing their understanding of diverse faiths and cultures.
Staff at Fishwick Primary School feel valued and supported by senior leaders, who consider their well-being and involve them in decision-making processes. This supportive atmosphere contributes to a positive working environment, which ultimately benefits the pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing concerns. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of neglect or abuse, ensuring that pupils receive timely support when needed. Overall, Fishwick Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils, with a strong foundation for future growth and development.
