Barton St Lawrence Church of England Primary School, located in Barton, Preston, Lancashire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 28th and 29th of November 2023. The school has been rated as outstanding in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a continuation of its previous outstanding rating from March 2010, as the school was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to its high standards.
The school prides itself on its core values of individuality, integrity, and resilience, which are deeply embedded in the culture and ethos of the institution. Pupils are provided with a strong foundation for their education, supported by the school's high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to offer a rich array of academic, moral, and social learning opportunities, ensuring that all pupils excel.
From the moment children enter the Reception Year, they are taught the importance of respect and generosity. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are encouraged to develop strong friendships and maintain positive relationships with staff. This nurturing atmosphere is particularly beneficial for those who require additional support in managing their emotions, as staff are dedicated to providing the necessary assistance.
Leadership opportunities abound at the school, with pupils engaging in various roles such as charity leaders and reading buddies. These experiences instill a sense of responsibility and community, as pupils work hard to benefit others. The school’s commitment to personal development is evident in the wide range of extracurricular activities available, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, enabling all pupils to achieve exceptional success. Early years staff are highly skilled, ensuring that children are well-prepared for Year 1. As pupils progress through key stages 1 and 2, they build on their prior knowledge, supported by expert staff who deliver high-quality training and adapt the curriculum to meet individual needs. This approach ensures that by the end of Year 6, pupils possess a deep and rich body of knowledge, equipping them for the challenges of secondary education.
Reading is a particular strength of the school, with a robust phonics programme in place. Staff deliver this programme with confidence, providing timely support for pupils who may struggle. Young learners are matched with books that align with their phonetic knowledge, resulting in a high proportion of proficient readers by the end of key stage 1. Older pupils are encouraged to explore a diverse range of high-quality texts, fostering a love for reading that contributes to their overall academic success.
Pupils demonstrate a strong moral perspective, treating others with respect regardless of differences. Their courteous and friendly behaviour is a testament to the values instilled by the school. Older students serve as excellent role models for their younger peers, further promoting a positive school culture.
The school’s governors work closely with staff to drive continuous improvement while being mindful of their workload and well-being. This collaborative approach ensures that both staff and governors are focused on providing the best possible educational experience for pupils. The pride that staff take in their work is evident, as is the appreciation from parents for the school’s achievements.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. The school has created an open and positive culture around safeguarding, prioritizing the interests of pupils.
Overall, Barton St Lawrence Church of England Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically, socially, and personally. The commitment to high standards, combined with a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, ensures that all pupils receive the best possible start to their educational journey.
