Lytham Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by the inspection conducted on 15-16 October 2019. The school provides a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending. They describe the school as a happy place where everyone strives to get along, and instances of bullying or name-calling are reported to be rare. The school has a clear behavior policy that pupils understand, and they appreciate the rewards for good behavior. Attendance is notably high, with most pupils rarely missing school.
Pupils actively support one another and enjoy sharing their ideas with friends. The school promotes a growth mindset, encouraging pupils to adopt an I cannot do this yet attitude, which fosters resilience and determination. Older pupils take on various responsibilities, contributing to their development as responsible citizens. They engage in activities such as gardening and fundraising for charity, and they benefit from a wide range of after-school clubs and activities. The school also emphasizes the importance of safety, equipping pupils with knowledge about online dangers and safe practices when commuting.
The curriculum at Lytham Church of England School is broad and engaging, designed to develop pupils' knowledge and skills systematically. Pupils achieve well in reading, writing, and mathematics, with disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs receiving high-quality support tailored to their needs. The school has made significant improvements in mathematics instruction since 2017, focusing on reasoning and problem-solving, which has led to increased enjoyment and pride in mathematics among pupils.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for reading. Older pupils enthusiastically discuss their favorite books, while younger pupils in Reception are provided with challenging reading materials. The school ensures that pupils receive structured support to enhance their reading skills, and staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, resulting in pupils becoming fluent and confident readers.
The history curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge and develop a strong understanding of historical events. Parents and carers express high levels of support for the school, particularly regarding its commitment to pupils with special educational needs. Staff report feeling supported by school leaders, who actively seek their input and feedback.
Governors are knowledgeable about the school and hold leaders accountable for ensuring that pupils achieve their best. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and being aware of the potential dangers faced by pupils. The headteacher and learning mentor maintain thorough records of safeguarding efforts and collaborate with various professionals to provide timely support to pupils and their families.
While the school has made commendable progress, there is a need for continued development in the teaching of mathematics, particularly in reasoning and problem-solving. Additionally, opportunities for training in subjects beyond English and mathematics should be enhanced to further empower staff in leading the curriculum effectively. Overall, Lytham Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
