St Stephen’s Church of England Primary School in Blackburn, Lancashire, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on February 8 and 9, 2022. The school was rated as good overall, with specific commendations in various areas including personal development, which was deemed outstanding. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at St Stephen’s enjoy their time at school, demonstrating a strong commitment to their studies and adhering to the high expectations set by the staff. They work diligently in lessons and appreciate the support provided by teachers when they encounter difficulties. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they navigate the school environment calmly and respectfully, showing consideration for both peers and adults. The school fosters a safe atmosphere where pupils feel secure and confident in sharing any concerns with trusted adults, ensuring that any instances of bullying are addressed promptly.
The school offers a rich array of opportunities for personal development, including various clubs and a well-rounded curriculum that promotes understanding of fundamental British values. Pupils actively participate in school life, taking on roles such as school councillors and well-being champions, which further enhances their sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The curriculum at St Stephen’s is ambitious and aligns with national standards, catering for the diverse needs of its pupils. It emphasizes vocabulary and reading skills, enabling students to access learning across subjects effectively. While the curriculum is generally well-structured, there are areas where pupils struggle to connect prior knowledge to more complex concepts due to unclear sequencing in a few subjects. Some subject leaders are new to their roles and may require additional support to effectively monitor and evaluate the impact of their subjects.
In the early years, children benefit from a well-organized curriculum that promotes vocabulary development and is tailored to their learning needs. The phonics curriculum is particularly effective, helping pupils become fluent readers. The school provides appropriate support for those who find reading challenging, ensuring that all pupils, including those who speak English as an additional language, can thrive.
Teachers regularly assess pupil understanding through various strategies, allowing leaders to identify and address gaps in learning, particularly those that may have arisen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to succeed.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, engaging actively in discussions and demonstrating a focus on their studies. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school’s efforts and the support they receive, particularly in accessing external resources when needed.
The leadership team prioritizes personal development within the curriculum, offering a comprehensive program of activities that promote empathy and tolerance. Initiatives such as cultural visits and charitable actions prepare pupils to be responsible citizens in modern society. The school’s governors are well-informed and play an active role in holding leaders accountable for their actions.
Staff members take pride in their work at St Stephen’s, demonstrating a commitment to providing high-quality education while being mindful of workload considerations. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. Overall, St Stephen’s Church of England Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally.
