Banks St Stephen’s CofE School in Southport, Merseyside, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on 14 and 15 September 2021. The school was rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marked a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement.
Pupils at the school express pride in their educational environment, arriving eager to learn each day. The leadership team, staff, and governors work collaboratively to ensure that every pupil receives a strong foundation for their education. Students feel safe and happy at school, with a supportive atmosphere that fosters friendships and resolves conflicts swiftly. The school promotes a culture of care, where pupils are confident that any instances of bullying will be addressed promptly.
The school emphasizes its Christian values of belonging, serving, and succeeding, which pupils strive to embody. They demonstrate good behaviour and actively participate in school life, taking on roles such as librarians and committee members. The school also encourages pupils to engage with the local community, fostering relationships with residents at a nearby retirement home and providing insights into the world of work through connections with local businesses.
A well-structured curriculum is in place, designed to build on pupils' prior knowledge and cater to the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is carefully sequenced, allowing pupils to make connections across subjects, which enhances their learning experience. Teachers have received high-quality training, equipping them to deliver the curriculum effectively. They utilize assessment information to tailor their teaching to meet the needs of individual pupils, ensuring that those who struggle receive the necessary support.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has taken steps to address gaps in knowledge that arose during this period. Leaders have identified key content that was not covered and have integrated this into the current curriculum plans. However, they are still in the early stages of evaluating the effectiveness of these adaptations and ensuring that pupils are catching up.
Language and communication development is prioritized throughout the school. Staff actively work to expand pupils' vocabulary, particularly in the early years, and foster a love of reading. The school library plays a central role in promoting literacy, with pupils enjoying storytelling and discussing their favorite authors. Phonics instruction begins as soon as children start school, and by the end of Year 2, most pupils are confident and fluent readers.
In the early years, staff create an environment that nurtures children's confidence and enthusiasm for learning. Children quickly adapt to established routines, and the overall atmosphere is one of politeness and good manners, with minimal disruption during lessons. Pupils take pride in their achievements and can articulate their learning experiences.
The curriculum is further enriched through various opportunities, including educational trips and activities that promote tolerance and respect for diverse perspectives. Older pupils demonstrate an understanding of democratic principles and the importance of civic engagement, inspired by visits from local representatives.
Governors are actively involved in the school, using their knowledge to hold leaders accountable for the quality of education. They are mindful of staff workload and well-being, contributing to a supportive work environment. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, reflecting a strong community connection.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring that staff are trained to recognize signs of distress in pupils. Leaders engage with external agencies to provide additional support when needed. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including online interactions, and feel comfortable approaching adults with any concerns.
In summary, Banks St Stephen’s CofE School has made significant strides in improving its educational offerings and fostering a positive school culture. The commitment to high standards in teaching, learning, and community engagement is evident, positioning the school as a valuable asset to its pupils and the wider community.
