Hapton Church of England/Methodist Primary School in Burnley, Lancashire, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on October 3 and 4, 2023. 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. The school has maintained its good standing since the previous inspection in December 2017.
The inspection highlighted the school’s high expectations for pupil learning and behaviour, which contribute to a supportive environment where students feel happy and safe. Pupils achieve well across various subjects and are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. The report noted that pupils exhibit commendable behaviour and positive attitudes towards learning, fostering respectful relationships among peers. The school environment is described as calm, with pupils aware that they can seek help from adults if needed.
Pupils at the school appreciate and celebrate diversity, expressing that all students are welcomed regardless of race or gender. They enjoy outdoor activities and have access to a variety of experiences that promote physical activity and social interaction. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, with roles such as reading ambassadors and well-being champions available to them. This inclusive approach extends to pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, who are supported in developing their interests in sports, music, and the arts.
The school’s leadership, including the governing body, is committed to providing the best educational start for all pupils. A strong emphasis is placed on phonics and reading instruction, with parents and carers involved in understanding how to support their children’s learning at home. The phonics programme is effectively delivered, and reading materials are well-matched to pupils’ abilities. However, some pupils struggle with fluency, relying too heavily on sounding out words, which can hinder their comprehension.
The curriculum is well-organized and broad, allowing all pupils, including those with SEND, to access the national curriculum. Teachers present new concepts clearly and typically check for understanding before progressing. Nonetheless, there are instances where assessment strategies could be improved to better inform future learning. The school effectively supports pupils with SEND, ensuring their needs are quickly identified and addressed.
Pupils demonstrate curiosity and focus during lessons, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere free from disruptions. Their personal development is prioritized, with cultural education enhancing their understanding of diversity. The school promotes health and safety awareness, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.
Staff members are well-acquainted with pupils and their families, providing timely support to vulnerable families. Parents express appreciation for the care their children receive and the information provided about their learning. The governing body is dedicated to the school, offering effective challenge and support, while staff benefit from ongoing training and support.
The school has a high staff morale, with leaders committed to managing workloads effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Areas for improvement include enhancing reading fluency for early learners and refining assessment practices in certain subjects to better inform teaching strategies. Overall, the inspection reflects a strong commitment to educational excellence and the well-being of all pupils at Hapton Church of England/Methodist Primary School.
