Located on Ashworth Road in Waterfoot, Rossendale, Lancashire, St Anne’s Church of England Primary School has recently reaffirmed its status as a good school following an inspection on May 11 and 12, 2023. The school, which caters to children aged 3 to 11, is known for its warm and welcoming environment, underpinned by core values of respect, thankfulness, hope, forgiveness, love, and faithfulness.
The inspection highlighted the friendly atmosphere at St Anne’s, where pupils thrive on the friendships they build. The school’s leadership sets high expectations for behavior, fostering a culture of kindness and respect among students. Incidents of bullying are rare and effectively managed, contributing to a safe and happy school experience for all.
Leaders at St Anne’s are particularly committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), receive the support they need to succeed. The early years program encourages independence and cooperation, setting a strong foundation for future learning.
St Anne’s has made significant strides in curriculum development, ensuring it is ambitious and logically structured from Nursery through to Year 6. While most subjects have a well-defined curriculum, there are a few areas where further refinement is needed to enhance knowledge retention among pupils.
Teachers are well-trained and utilize effective strategies to help students retain what they learn. Reading is prioritized, with pupils engaging with a diverse range of high-quality books that deepen their understanding of the curriculum. However, some pupils face challenges when the reading materials do not align well with their phonics knowledge, which can hinder their confidence and fluency.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that nurture pupils’ talents, including participation in performances like ‘Young Voices’ in Manchester and various sports competitions. These opportunities not only enhance learning but also promote teamwork and personal growth.
The leadership team at St Anne’s is dedicated to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and revising the curriculum to meet the needs of all students. Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that the school remains on a path of excellence. Staff members feel valued and appreciated, contributing to a positive working environment.
Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities through roles such as play leaders and members of the pupil council, which helps to raise their aspirations and prepares them for life beyond school. The school also emphasizes the importance of community engagement, with trips and guest speakers enriching the educational experience.
Safeguarding is a top priority at St Anne’s, with leaders fostering a strong culture of safety. Staff are well-trained to identify and address any concerns, ensuring that pupils feel secure and supported. The school’s curriculum includes lessons on personal safety, helping students understand the risks they may face in various situations.
While St Anne’s Church of England Primary School has many strengths, the inspection identified areas for further development. Leaders are encouraged to finalize the curriculum design in a few subjects to ensure that pupils can build on their knowledge coherently. Additionally, ensuring that reading materials are appropriately matched to pupils’ phonics knowledge will help enhance their reading confidence and fluency.
In conclusion, St Anne’s Church of England Primary School continues to be a good school, characterized by a supportive environment, strong leadership, and a commitment to the holistic development of its pupils. With ongoing efforts to refine the curriculum and enhance reading support, the school is well-positioned to maintain its high standards and foster a love of learning among its students.
