Great Harwood St Bartholomew’s Parish Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School is a welcoming and friendly environment where pupils feel safe and well cared for. The school has established a positive atmosphere that fosters happiness among students, who express confidence in the staff's ability to address their concerns. The core values of courage, friendship, service, forgiveness, justice, and love are integrated throughout the curriculum, promoting strong relationships within the school community. Pupils demonstrate good manners and extend a warm welcome to visitors, contributing to a respectful and supportive environment.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils displaying respect for one another during lessons and playtimes. They appreciate the rewards for good behavior and hard work, which encourages a positive attitude towards learning. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they achieve well. The commitment to helping pupils reach their personal best is evident in the support provided by the school.
Beyond academics, pupils value the diverse range of extracurricular opportunities available to them. They enthusiastically discuss experiences such as visits to football stadiums, outdoor learning, and trips to museums and places of worship, which enrich their educational journey. The school has made significant improvements to its curriculum since the last inspection, developing a well-structured and ambitious program across key stages one and two. The curriculum is designed with careful consideration of what pupils need to learn and the sequence in which this knowledge is delivered.
While the school has made substantial progress, there are still areas for improvement. In a few subjects, the curriculum is not yet fully finalized, which can lead to inconsistencies in teaching and gaps in pupils' learning. Teachers sometimes struggle to design lessons that effectively build on pupils' existing knowledge, which can hinder their ability to make connections between concepts. Additionally, some pupils do not have sufficient opportunities to revisit and deepen their understanding of the material, which can affect their overall learning experience.
The school prioritizes reading, and pupils enjoy a wide selection of books that match their reading abilities. A new phonics curriculum has been introduced, and staff have received training to implement it effectively. Most children in the early years and key stage one demonstrate a solid understanding of phonics. However, a small number of pupils require additional support to catch up, which can impact their reading fluency.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons and during breaks, with early years children quickly adapting to established routines. The school emphasizes the importance of wider development, providing opportunities for pupils to explore diverse perspectives and learn about different cultures and religions. Older pupils are encouraged to contribute their ideas for school improvement through roles such as school councillors.
Governance at the school is effective, with governors utilizing their expertise to support and challenge the school in its efforts to enhance the curriculum. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the support provided by leaders to manage their well-being and workload. Communication with parents is strong, with the school offering guidance on how to support children's learning at home.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized. Overall, Great Harwood St Bartholomew’s Primary School has made significant strides in its educational provision, creating a nurturing environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. Continued focus on refining the curriculum and addressing individual learning needs will further enhance the school's effectiveness.
