Read St John’s CofE Primary School in Burnley, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 8 and 9 February 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel safe. They have strong relationships with their peers and appreciate the support provided by their teachers. Incidents of bullying are addressed promptly, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The leadership team and staff have high aspirations for all pupils, promoting positive behavior and regular attendance, which contributes to effective learning.
The school offers a broad range of activities that cater to various interests, allowing pupils to explore their talents. Activities such as cooking, gardening, swimming, and participation in the choir enable students to engage with their community, including performing for the elderly. Pupils are encouraged to take on roles that contribute to school life, such as being school council representatives and eco-warriors, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The curriculum at Read St John’s is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders ensuring that essential knowledge and vocabulary are identified for pupils to learn. The use of visitors and trips enhances the curriculum, sparking curiosity and a love for learning. Teachers are generally effective in delivering the curriculum, and pupils are well-prepared for their next educational steps, achieving commendable results.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers are still adapting to the new subject curriculums, and there are instances where the chosen teaching activities do not effectively support pupil learning. Leaders have not consistently monitored the implementation of the revised curriculums, which limits their ability to provide necessary guidance to teachers. Additionally, a few teachers do not utilize assessment strategies effectively, leading to gaps in pupils’ understanding that are not identified promptly, hindering their progress.
Reading is prioritized at the school, with investments made in books that align with pupils’ phonics knowledge. The phonics program begins in the Reception class, and teachers are well-trained to deliver it effectively. Regular opportunities for pupils to practice blending sounds and revisit familiar words are provided, ensuring that they develop confidence in their reading abilities. Support is also available for pupils who struggle, enabling them to catch up and apply their phonics knowledge successfully.
The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils. Leaders are aware of potential risks and ensure that staff receive up-to-date training on safeguarding practices. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe, including understanding unhealthy relationships and personal boundaries. Initiatives like the pupil ‘well-being warriors’ promote positive mental health and peer support.
Overall, Read St John’s CofE Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils. While there are areas that require attention, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation and assessment practices, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils receive the education and support they need to thrive academically and socially.
