Haslingden St James Church of England Primary School is recognized for its warm and caring environment, fostering high expectations for all pupils. The school has maintained its overall judgment of good following an ungraded inspection, with indications that it could achieve an outstanding rating in a graded inspection. The school community is characterized by enthusiasm for learning, with pupils achieving remarkable academic success. The ethos of the school emphasizes kindness, respect, and a sense of belonging, creating a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils feel safe and supported, knowing they can approach staff with any concerns.
The school offers a broad range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents in sports, music, and dance. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and those who arrive with no spoken English. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively use assessments to guide pupils' learning, enabling them to build knowledge securely over time. The focus on reading is particularly strong, with teachers promoting it with enthusiasm, resulting in pupils developing confidence and fluency in their reading skills.
The school prioritizes early identification of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary support. This proactive approach allows these pupils to engage fully in lessons and achieve well. The school maintains a calm and orderly environment, with high expectations for behavior that pupils accept as part of their school life. This is reflected in their respectful interactions with one another and with staff, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere.
Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities through various roles, which support their personal development and foster leadership skills. The school promotes an understanding of different cultures and beliefs, helping pupils celebrate diversity and recognize commonalities. The strong partnership with parents enhances the school community, fostering a sense of belonging and commitment among pupils.
Staff at the school feel supported and recognized in their roles, with measures in place to manage workload effectively. The nurturing culture extends to the relationships between staff and pupils, contributing to a positive school environment. Governors are actively involved and demonstrate a commitment to the school's mission, ensuring that support and challenge are balanced for the benefit of all staff.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a focus on creating a culture that prioritizes the well-being of pupils. The school has undergone its second ungraded inspection since being judged good in 2013, reflecting its ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards. The inspection process included discussions with staff, pupils, and governors, as well as a review of the curriculum and teaching practices.
Overall, Haslingden St James Church of England Primary School exemplifies a strong educational environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to high expectations, inclusivity, and community engagement positions it well for future success. The next inspection is anticipated to be a graded one, which will further assess the school's progress and achievements.
