Longridge Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are eager to learn and demonstrate courteous behavior towards one another. The relationships between staff and students are characterized by mutual respect, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere. Pupils express confidence in the leadership's ability to address any issues related to behavior or bullying, which reinforces their sense of security within the school community. The high expectations set by the leaders motivate students to strive for excellence and adhere to school rules, with many enjoying the rewards associated with good behavior.
The school offers a diverse range of experiences that extend beyond the standard curriculum. Recent initiatives include tree planting activities, which engage students in environmental stewardship. Older pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school, such as house captains, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs, achieve well and are prepared for the transition to secondary education.
The curriculum at Longridge Church of England Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders carefully considering the essential skills and knowledge pupils should acquire at each stage. The governing body plays an active role in ensuring that the curriculum is effective and holds school leaders accountable for the quality of education provided. Early years education is particularly strong, laying a solid foundation for future learning.
Subject leaders engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their expertise, which in turn supports teachers in delivering effective lessons across various subjects. Teachers are adept at introducing new concepts in a manner that builds on prior knowledge, utilizing assessment tools to monitor pupil understanding and retention of information. Staff members are well-informed about the needs of their pupils, allowing for early identification of additional support requirements. This proactive approach ensures that all students, including those with special educational needs, have access to the same curriculum and achieve positive outcomes.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with a well-planned phonics curriculum that is implemented systematically. However, there are instances where some staff do not consistently adhere to the agreed-upon methods for teaching phonics, which can hinder the progress of a few pupils in developing their reading skills. Overall, classroom environments are calm and conducive to learning, with pupils focused on their tasks without disruptions.
The school promotes understanding and tolerance of diverse faiths and cultures, providing pupils with opportunities to engage in community service and fundraising activities. Staff members express strong support for school leadership, noting that their workload and well-being are considered, which contributes to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training to stay updated on safeguarding practices, and leaders are vigilant in addressing any concerns. The local governing body maintains oversight of safeguarding procedures, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive appropriate support.
While the school excels in many areas, it is recommended that leaders ensure all staff consistently follow the phonics curriculum to enhance the reading fluency and confidence of all pupils. This will help to further solidify the school's reputation as a good educational institution, committed to the success and well-being of its students.
