Located in the heart of Blackburn, Lancashire, St Anne's Roman Catholic Primary School has recently undergone an inspection that has highlighted its remarkable transformation and commitment to providing quality education. The inspection, conducted on September 21-22, 2021, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of Good, a significant improvement from its previous grade of Requires Improvement.
St Anne's is celebrated for its inclusive and nurturing atmosphere. Pupils describe the school as one big happy family, where everyone feels welcomed and valued. The staff play a crucial role in helping new students, particularly those who are new to the country, to settle in and make friends quickly. This supportive environment fosters a sense of belonging, allowing students to thrive both academically and socially.
The quality of education at St Anne's is rated as Good, with a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that spans all age groups, including early years. Subject leaders have received high-quality training, enabling them to support teachers effectively in delivering the curriculum. As a result, pupils achieve well, with many leaving Year 6 well-prepared for secondary school. Daily reading lessons and a carefully designed phonics curriculum ensure that pupils develop strong literacy skills.
Behaviour and attitudes at St Anne's are commendable, with pupils demonstrating respect for school rules and a strong work ethic in lessons. The high expectations set by teachers contribute to a calm and focused learning environment. Pupils feel safe and supported, knowing that there is always an adult available to address any concerns, including issues related to bullying.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, with a broad PSHE curriculum that teaches pupils about health, well-being, and the importance of celebrating diversity. Opportunities for involvement in the school council and faith council allow students to develop leadership skills and contribute to their school community. Extracurricular activities, such as dodgeball and football clubs, further enrich the pupils' experience, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
The leadership team at St Anne's is dedicated to maintaining high standards and ensuring the well-being of both pupils and staff. The governing body provides appropriate support and challenge, ensuring that the school's curriculum plans are ambitious and effective. Staff members report feeling valued and supported, contributing to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding arrangements at St Anne's are robust, with all staff receiving appropriate training to identify and report concerns. The school actively promotes online safety, educating pupils about the potential dangers of social media and how to protect themselves.
While the inspection highlighted many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all pupils, particularly younger readers, are matched with books that align closely with their phonics knowledge. Additionally, in a few subjects, the essential knowledge that pupils should learn needs to be more clearly defined to enhance the learning experience.
In conclusion, St Anne's Roman Catholic Primary School stands as a testament to the power of effective leadership, dedicated staff, and a supportive community. With its commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on the holistic development of its pupils, St Anne's is well on its way to becoming a leading educational institution in Blackburn. The school's dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive, and academically rigorous environment ensures that every child has the opportunity to succeed.
