Knuzden St Oswald’s CofE Voluntary Aided Primary School is a smaller-than-average primary school located in Blackburn, Lancashire. The school has made significant strides in improving educational standards, achieving a good overall effectiveness rating during its latest inspection. The leadership team, including the headteacher and assistant headteachers, has implemented decisive actions to enhance the quality of education, resulting in a positive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive. The school’s Christian values are integral to its ethos, promoting qualities such as politeness, respect, and kindness among pupils.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is rated as good, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effective teaching strategies. The school has focused on improving reading, writing, and mathematics, leading to noticeable progress among pupils. The teaching of phonics is particularly strong, with nearly all pupils meeting expected standards by the end of Year 1. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in challenging middle-ability and most-able pupils to achieve greater depth in their learning. Some pupils express a lack of enthusiasm for reading, indicating a need for more engaging reading opportunities.
Personal development, behavior, and welfare require improvement, particularly during playtimes and lunchtimes, which can be disorganized. While pupils generally exhibit good behavior in classrooms and are respectful towards each other and staff, the chaotic atmosphere during breaks detracts from their overall experience. The school is aware of these issues and is working to create a more structured and calm environment during these times.
Outcomes for pupils are good, with the majority making strong progress from their starting points. The school has successfully addressed previous dips in achievement, particularly at the end of key stage 2, where the proportion of pupils achieving expected standards in writing and grammar exceeds national averages. However, there is still a need to ensure that more pupils reach higher standards in mathematics and reading. The school’s focus on identifying and supporting disadvantaged pupils has been effective, with the gap in achievement narrowing.
Early years provision is also rated as good, with children making significant progress from low starting points. The vibrant and stimulating learning environment encourages children to engage and develop essential skills. The leadership of the early years is strong, with a clear understanding of strengths and areas for improvement. The emphasis on phonics, writing, and number skills is evident, contributing to positive outcomes for children.
Overall, Knuzden St Oswald’s is a school that has demonstrated a commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to continuing this progress, focusing on raising achievement levels, enhancing the quality of teaching, and ensuring that all pupils have a positive and enriching educational experience. The school is well-supported by governors who are actively involved in its development and improvement efforts. The strong community ethos and the dedication of staff contribute to a nurturing environment where pupils can flourish academically and personally.
