Sherwood Primary School is a highly regarded institution located in Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire. The recent inspection conducted on 29 and 30 October 2024 reaffirmed the school's outstanding status across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in May 2012, when it was also rated outstanding.
The school environment is described as well-ordered and welcoming, fostering a sense of happiness and pride among pupils. They approach challenges with enthusiasm and confidence, reflecting the school's commitment to academic excellence. The curriculum is designed to provide a rich array of high-quality experiences, ensuring that all pupils achieve well from their individual starting points. Staff members are dedicated to providing tailored support to help pupils overcome any barriers to learning, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities. This inclusive approach allows all students to thrive.
In the early years, children adapt quickly and eagerly engage with their learning, forming friendships and enjoying collaborative activities. The exemplary behaviour and positive attitudes of pupils contribute to a harmonious atmosphere during lessons and social interactions. The school promotes respect for individuality and encourages pupils to support one another, both within the school and the wider community. Leadership opportunities are abundant, with pupils actively participating in discussions about the school's future development.
The school community shares a strong sense of purpose, working collaboratively to ensure high achievement for all pupils. The governing body plays a crucial role, demonstrating diligence and a deep understanding of the community's needs. They provide essential support to staff, enabling them to perform their roles effectively. The curriculum is exceptionally well-structured, allowing teachers to focus on key learning objectives and adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of individual pupils. This ensures that all students receive the appropriate level of challenge and support, leading to consistently high standards of achievement.
Teachers are skilled in helping pupils build on their existing knowledge and effectively address any gaps or misconceptions. This is particularly evident in reading, where a strong emphasis is placed on vocabulary development and comprehension. The school prioritizes reading, selecting high-quality literature to engage pupils and enhance their learning experiences. From the early years, children are introduced to phonics, with teachers delivering the phonics programme to a consistently high standard. This approach fosters confidence in reading, with additional support provided to those who may struggle.
The school excels in supporting pupils' personal development, offering a wide range of trips and activities that broaden their understanding of the world. Pupils celebrate diversity and express their opinions while respecting the views of others, preparing them to be active citizens in the future. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Overall, Sherwood Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, with a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment. The dedication of staff, the engagement of pupils, and the active involvement of the governing body contribute to the school's outstanding reputation and success.
