Roughlee Church of England Primary School, located in Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 4, 2022. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where pupils express their happiness and sense of belonging. They appreciate the close-knit community, which allows them to know each other well. The leadership team demonstrates ambition for every pupil, setting high expectations for behavior and academic achievement. This is reflected in the positive behavior of pupils, who work diligently in lessons and adhere to school routines effectively. Kindness and cooperation are evident among students, who readily share and support one another.
Teachers at Roughlee Church of England Primary School are attentive to the individual needs and interests of their pupils, ensuring that learning is tailored accordingly. This approach benefits all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils feel comfortable discussing any concerns with staff, confident that issues, including bullying, will be addressed promptly. The school fosters a safe environment, where pupils feel secure and valued.
The curriculum at Roughlee is ambitious, broad, and balanced, with careful consideration given to what pupils should learn. The order in which new information is presented is designed to build on prior knowledge, although there are instances where the choice of activities may not fully support in-depth learning. Teachers effectively utilize assessment systems to monitor pupil progress and address misconceptions, adapting their teaching to fill any gaps in understanding. Reading is prioritized from the early years, with staff well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials.
Leaders have established effective systems to identify pupils needing additional support, particularly those with special educational needs. Regular meetings among staff ensure that support arrangements are successful, and parents are actively involved in their children's education. Attendance rates are high, with leaders working closely with families to address any barriers to regular attendance.
Pupils benefit from a well-rounded personal development program, which includes a variety of trips and experiences that complement the curriculum. The school organizes after-school activities that broaden pupils' horizons, and regular visitors provide first-hand experiences that prepare them for life in modern society. Leadership opportunities are available for older pupils, who take on responsibilities such as leading fundraising efforts for local and international projects.
The staff at Roughlee work collaboratively, with leaders and governors continuously evaluating the effectiveness of their decisions to enhance educational quality. Governors are well-informed about the school and fulfill their statutory duties while being mindful of staff workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety and effective communication between staff and families. Leaders are proactive in ensuring that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe and know whom to approach with concerns.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teaching strategies are optimally chosen to enhance learning. Leaders are encouraged to maximize opportunities for activities that fully support pupil development. Overall, Roughlee Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
