Scotforth St Paul’s Church of England Primary and Nursery School in Lancaster was inspected on 7 and 8 November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. The school had previously been inspected 12 years ago, receiving an outstanding grade under a different inspection framework. Since then, the school was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020, resulting in a longer gap between graded inspections.
Pupils at Scotforth St Paul’s arrive at school eager and happy, looking forward to their day. They feel safe and cared for, knowing that staff are attentive to their concerns. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and pupils strive to meet these expectations, achieving well across the curriculum. Behaviour is exceptional, contributing to a calm and conducive learning environment. Pupils show respect towards each other and staff, demonstrating courteous manners throughout the school.
The school fosters a strong sense of responsibility among pupils, who actively participate in initiatives such as the school council and various clubs. They take pride in their roles, including sports and house captains, and engage in activities that promote charitable causes. The curriculum is engaging and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. Staff possess strong subject knowledge and typically design activities that deepen pupils' understanding. However, there are occasional inconsistencies in curriculum delivery across subjects, which can affect learning outcomes for some pupils.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and have established routines to reinforce prior learning. When misconceptions arise, they are addressed promptly to keep pupils on track. The school has effective systems to identify the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they learn alongside their peers and receive appropriate support. Reading is emphasized throughout the curriculum, with pupils enjoying a variety of high-quality texts. The school organizes author visits to enhance the reading experience, and pupils are encouraged to explore different cultures through literature.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to school routines and develop foundational skills in rhymes and songs, preparing them for future learning. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with regular practice to support reading development. Most pupils read fluently by the time they reach key stage two. Pupils understand the importance of fairness and respect, actively supporting younger peers and demonstrating awareness of diverse cultures. However, the school has not fully ensured that all pupils have an age-appropriate understanding of British values, which is essential for their preparation for life in modern Britain.
Governors are well-informed about the school, enabling them to provide effective support and challenge. The school is attentive to staff workload and well-being, taking steps to reduce unnecessary burdens. Staff feel valued and enjoy their work environment. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all pupils. The school is currently working on providing additional support and training for staff to enhance curriculum delivery and ensure all pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of British values. Overall, Scotforth St Paul’s Church of England Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive school community.
