Calder Vale St John Church of England Primary School, located in Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 1, 2021. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and happy, allowing them to grow, learn, and explore together. The leadership team, along with governors and staff, maintains high expectations for all pupils, fostering an ambitious atmosphere that encourages success across various subjects. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, often recommending it to others.
In the early years, children thrive in a supportive setting that promotes both learning and play. Pupils exhibit politeness and good manners, with a strong belief that bullying is rare and that staff would address any issues promptly. The school encourages pupils to contribute to its improvement, with students participating in committees that organize fundraising events for local charities. They also enjoy extracurricular activities, such as performing with the school band and collaborating with local artists, which help develop their confidence and resilience.
The curriculum at Calder Vale is ambitious and tailored to meet the needs of pupils in mixed-age classes, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most subjects have well-defined curriculum plans that outline essential knowledge for pupils, ensuring a coherent learning experience across different subjects. Staff regularly assess pupil progress, using this information to inform future learning. However, some subjects lack clarity in their curriculum plans regarding what pupils in different year groups should know at key points, which can hinder effective planning for mixed-age classes.
The school fosters a love of reading from the outset, with early years pupils engaging enthusiastically with songs and rhymes. As pupils progress, they share their favorite stories and recommend books to one another. The reading curriculum is delivered effectively, enabling pupils to learn phonics and read unfamiliar words confidently. Most pupils become fluent readers, with additional support provided for those who face challenges in reading.
The positive culture established by the leadership promotes good behavior among pupils, who act as role models for one another. Disruptions in lessons are minimal, and pupils celebrate each other's achievements. Staff are adept at identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that all students can access the full range of school offerings.
The school also provides a variety of opportunities to enhance the curriculum, including field trips and visits from professionals in various fields, which broaden pupils' understanding of different cultures and career aspirations. Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring staff well-being is prioritized, which contributes to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize changes in pupils' behavior and appearance. Established procedures allow for the prompt sharing of concerns, ensuring vulnerable pupils receive necessary support. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including outdoor learning and internet use, with guidance provided for parents on keeping children safe online.
To further improve, the school should ensure that all curriculum plans clearly outline the knowledge pupils need to acquire at key stages, facilitating better planning for mixed-age classes. Overall, Calder Vale St John Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
