Brookhouse Primary School, located in Blackburn, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 11 and 12 October 2022. The school provides a nurturing environment where children feel secure and valued from their early years. The staff establishes clear routines that foster a strong sense of belonging among pupils, contributing to their positive behavior and overall happiness. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, noting that their children enjoy attending.
The leadership team at Brookhouse Primary School maintains high expectations for academic achievement and behavior. They are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to succeed. The curriculum is continuously refined to enhance learning across all subjects, and pupils are encouraged to embrace the school’s values, such as respect and perseverance. Celebrations of success during weekly assemblies further motivate students to strive for excellence.
Pupils engage in a variety of enriching experiences, including musical events and clubs, which help them appreciate diversity and develop a sense of responsibility. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a well-structured reading curriculum that is effectively delivered by trained staff. This approach ensures that pupils acquire phonics knowledge at the appropriate stages, enabling them to become fluent readers. The school promotes a culture of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favorite authors and participating in reading initiatives.
In addition to a strong focus on literacy, the school has made significant strides in refining the curriculum across other subjects. Teachers are well-equipped to deliver lessons that build on prior knowledge, although there are areas where assessment strategies could be more consistently applied. The needs of pupils with special educational needs are promptly identified, and appropriate support is provided to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers.
The personal development curriculum at Brookhouse Primary School teaches pupils about respect, health, and different faiths, fostering a well-rounded understanding of their role in society. The school organizes various activities, including museum visits and field trips, to enhance learning experiences. Staff well-being is prioritized, and leaders are committed to supporting their workload.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, leaders need to ensure that assessment strategies are consistently implemented to better track pupil progress. Additionally, the governing body should enhance its level of challenge to school leaders regarding the quality of education provided. This will help ensure that governors have an accurate understanding of pupil achievement across the curriculum.
The safeguarding arrangements at Brookhouse Primary School are effective, with well-trained staff who promptly address any concerns. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety, and they feel supported by the available resources. Overall, Brookhouse Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for improvement, ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education.
