St James' Church of England Primary School in Blackburn has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 6 and 7, 2022. The school fosters a friendly learning environment where pupils, including those in the early years, feel happy and safe. Staff members greet students warmly each morning, contributing to a positive atmosphere. The school emphasizes the importance of trust and relationships, which helps students feel secure among their peers and teachers.
Leaders at the school are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the necessary support to access a challenging curriculum. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious for all students, including two-year-olds and those in early years education. High expectations are set for pupil achievement, and most students strive to meet these expectations, resulting in commendable academic outcomes. Early years children are well-prepared for the transition to Year 1.
Behavior expectations are clearly communicated, and pupils generally move around the school in a calm and sensible manner. Early years children understand school routines, knowing when to work and when to listen. Pupils are aware of the implications of bullying and express confidence that teachers will address any incidents swiftly. The school promotes an understanding of diversity, with older pupils often supporting younger ones as buddies. A variety of extracurricular activities, including residential trips and clubs, enhance the learning experience, and pupils take pride in their school.
The curriculum is broad and well-structured, with leaders adapting it to accommodate pupils who join mid-year. The focus on communication, language, and social skills for younger children supports their development effectively. Staff teach new knowledge in a logical sequence, allowing pupils to recall prior learning and reinforcing their understanding. Assessment systems are utilized to identify and address misconceptions in learning.
Reading is a priority, with staff receiving training to deliver phonics programs effectively. All pupils, including those in early years, are provided with support to improve their reading skills. Children in the nursery enjoy engaging with songs and rhymes, and the selection of reading materials aligns with their phonetic knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. However, some older pupils lack sufficient opportunities to practice reading, which can affect their confidence and fluency.
The school is adept at identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they follow the same curriculum as their peers. Teachers provide clear explanations and models of learning, which helps these pupils achieve well. The curriculum also promotes personal development, teaching pupils about physical and mental health and exposing them to diverse cultures and faiths.
While the school has made significant strides, challenges remain. Attendance is a concern, with some pupils regularly absent, which impacts their learning. Leaders are actively working to improve attendance rates. The school has a strong safeguarding culture, with effective systems in place to protect pupils. Staff receive regular training to identify and address any welfare concerns, and they collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support.
Overall, St James' Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
