Ormskirk Church of England Primary School has demonstrated effective measures to uphold the standards established during its previous inspection. The school fosters an environment where children in the early years and pupils in key stages one and two are encouraged to be kind, thoughtful, and polite. They take pride in the knowledge they acquire through the school's curriculum, meeting high expectations and achieving commendable results. The school’s extensive outdoor area provides inspiring learning opportunities, enhancing pupils' engagement and curiosity.
The relationships among pupils and between pupils and staff are of high quality, beginning with the strong connections formed in the class for two-year-olds. The school exemplifies positive behavior, ensuring that pupils feel secure and valued. They are confident that their concerns are taken seriously, contributing to a happy and safe atmosphere. The school promotes confidence and skill development through well-planned learning opportunities, including caring for the school dog, Pebbles. Pupils express pride in their school community, participating in various clubs such as choir and self-defense classes, which prepare them well for future learning.
The curriculum is designed thoughtfully, allowing pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to retain essential knowledge. The school emphasizes key information and tailors its teaching to ensure that all pupils grasp crucial concepts. Engaging first-hand experiences, such as visits to theatres and historical sites, enrich the learning process. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of diverse subjects, from mathematics to history, and their knowledge deepens over time.
The school effectively monitors pupils' understanding of the curriculum, using this information to identify individual needs and provide necessary support. This approach fosters inclusivity and helps pupils overcome learning obstacles. However, recent data indicates that the school's mathematics curriculum requires further enhancement, as some pupils' attainment in key stage two fell below the national average. The school has since revised its mathematics curriculum and teaching strategies, leading to improvements in current pupils' mathematical knowledge.
Communication skills are prioritized, with staff modeling language and engaging pupils in meaningful discussions. Early years children become confident communicators, while older pupils develop a rich vocabulary. The phonics program implemented in the Reception Year supports early reading development, ensuring that struggling pupils receive the additional help they need. Pupils recognize the importance of reading as foundational to their knowledge.
The school promotes respect for diversity and teaches pupils about the unacceptability of racism and homophobia. Pupils listen attentively to others, and low-level disruptions in classrooms are minimal, allowing for focused learning. The school regularly reviews its practices and takes thoughtful actions to sustain its successes, remaining proactive in improving attendance rates.
Staff support is a priority, enabling them to concentrate on delivering the curriculum effectively. The governing body plays a crucial role in challenging and supporting the school, ensuring that long-term priorities are met. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment.
To further enhance its early years curriculum, the school should clarify its actions to improve quality. This focus will help achieve its educational vision and continue to provide a high standard of education for all pupils. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils is evident in its practices and outcomes.
