St Wilfrid’s C of E Primary School in Halton, Lancaster, was inspected on January 15-16, 2020, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation for providing a positive educational environment where pupils enjoy learning and feel safe. The leadership team has high expectations for students, promoting respect and adherence to the school’s values. Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons and during playtime, with incidents of bullying being rare. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests, including sports and arts, which further enrich the students' educational experience.
The quality of education at St Wilfrid’s is rated as good, with a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that engages pupils. Most students, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs, achieve at least as well as their peers nationally in English and mathematics. However, there is a noted discrepancy in performance, with pupils typically excelling in English compared to mathematics by the end of Year 6. Recent improvements in the mathematics curriculum have been made, with training provided to enhance teachers' subject knowledge and ensure consistent delivery.
Reading is promoted effectively across the curriculum, and pupils express enthusiasm for their favorite authors and books. The phonics teaching is effective, with most pupils meeting the expected standard in the Year 1 phonics screening check. However, some children in the early years and key stage 1 struggle with reading fluency due to a mismatch between the books they are given and the phonics they are learning. This is an area identified for improvement, as it is crucial for developing confident and fluent readers.
The school’s early years provision is also rated as good, with stimulating activities that foster curiosity and engagement among children. Staff utilize storytelling to enhance listening skills and vocabulary development, while also promoting fine motor skills through various activities. The personal development of pupils is a notable strength, with opportunities for community engagement and leadership roles available to students.
Governance at the school is effective, with governors being well-informed about pupil achievement. However, there is a need for them to hold leaders accountable for performance across all subjects. Parents generally express positive views about the school, although some have raised concerns regarding communication about the curriculum and what is being taught. Addressing these concerns is essential for maintaining strong relationships with the school community.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Wilfrid’s are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to signs of abuse and neglect. Leaders work closely with support staff and external agencies to ensure that vulnerable families receive the necessary assistance.
In summary, St Wilfrid’s C of E Primary School provides a good quality of education with a strong emphasis on personal development and community involvement. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in reading fluency and mathematics consistency, the school is committed to enhancing the educational experience for all its pupils. The positive atmosphere, supportive staff, and engaging curriculum contribute to a nurturing environment where students can thrive.
