Richard Durning’s Endowed Primary School in Ormskirk, Lancashire, has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a strong reputation since its last inspection nearly eleven years ago, where it was rated outstanding. The current inspection reflects the school’s commitment to providing quality education and personal development for its pupils. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where staff understand and support the individual needs of each child. Pupils feel secure and valued, contributing to a positive school culture.
The school offers a broad range of opportunities for pupils to engage in academic, creative, and sporting activities. These include mathematics competitions, poetry contests, and various sports events. The extensive extracurricular clubs available, such as rounders, geography, art, and singing, cater to diverse interests and are accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This inclusive approach ensures that every child can benefit from the rich educational offerings.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing many pupils to achieve commendable results across various subjects. The school has established clear learning pathways, particularly in national curriculum subjects, which aids in delivering coherent and logical lessons. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the early years curriculum. While some aspects are well-defined, others lack clarity regarding the foundational knowledge that children should acquire. This gap can hinder the progression of children as they transition to key stage one.
The school excels in promoting personal development, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and the fundamental British values. Pupils actively participate in local events, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to their community. The school’s curriculum drivers reinforce essential themes such as respect, tolerance, and independence, contributing to the holistic development of pupils. Additionally, the school prioritizes mental and physical well-being, equipping students with the knowledge to care for themselves.
Reading is a significant focus at Richard Durning’s, with a well-implemented phonics program that begins as soon as children start school. This program is delivered effectively, ensuring that most pupils become fluent readers by the end of Year 1. The school employs various assessment strategies to identify and address any misconceptions in learning, providing tailored support to help pupils succeed.
Staff well-being is also a priority, with positive feedback regarding leadership’s efforts to manage workloads and support staff. Governors play an active role in school life, fulfilling their duties effectively and contributing to the overall governance of the school.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance the early years curriculum to better support children’s foundational learning and ensure a seamless transition to key stage one. Overall, Richard Durning’s Endowed Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
