Pilling St John’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on 15 March 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy and feel safe. Strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive atmosphere, ensuring that every child is known and valued. Leaders are dedicated to the well-being and success of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school promotes high expectations, encouraging pupils to engage actively in their learning and strive for excellence.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively across subjects. Mathematics instruction is particularly noted for its clarity and organization, enabling pupils to develop their skills effectively. Teachers employ various assessment strategies to monitor pupil progress, ensuring that learning objectives are met. However, in a few subjects, the identification of key knowledge for pupils to learn is not fully developed, which can hinder teachers' ability to address gaps in understanding promptly.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with early reading instruction beginning as soon as children start school. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in their reading journey, providing books that align with the phonics they are learning. This approach fosters accuracy and confidence in reading. The school also ensures that pupils who struggle with reading receive timely support to help them catch up. A diverse selection of high-quality books is available to stimulate pupils' interest and expand their vocabulary.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in classrooms and during social times, with staff effectively managing any challenging behavior that arises. This contributes to a conducive learning environment where disruptions are rare. The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, teaching pupils about equality and diversity. Pupils take pride in their contributions to community events and charitable activities, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility.
Leaders are proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Collaboration with external agencies further supports these pupils, helping to meet their individual needs effectively. The governing body has provided stable leadership during challenging times, and staff express positive sentiments about their work environment, appreciating the support they receive in managing their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with all staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders work closely with various agencies to support families in need, ensuring that pupils are protected from potential risks. The curriculum also addresses important issues such as drug and alcohol misuse, equipping pupils with the knowledge to navigate potential dangers.
Overall, Pilling St John’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in refining assessment systems in certain subjects, the school’s strengths in leadership, curriculum design, and pupil support contribute to its ongoing success. The school is well-positioned to continue fostering a positive learning environment that encourages all pupils to thrive academically and personally.
