Samlesbury Church of England School, located in Preston, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 5, 2022. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with staff and pupils describing it as a family-like environment. Pupils enjoy their time at school, particularly during playtimes, where they engage in various activities provided by the school leaders. The school's grounds are spacious and attractive, featuring a garden and a quiet area for reflection, which pupils appreciate.
The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all pupils thrive academically and socially. They have developed a curriculum designed to support the achievement of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils feel safe and secure in the school environment, confident that their concerns will be addressed by their teachers. The school promotes a culture of kindness and care, with pupils welcoming new students and helping them settle in.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as sports captains and buddies for younger students, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community. The school aims to instill values that encourage pupils to be active and caring individuals, aligning with its mission to live as a light to others. The curriculum is broad and balanced, with clear expectations for what pupils should learn in most subjects. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide additional support when necessary.
However, the school has faced challenges due to recent changes in leadership and staffing. Some subject leaders are still developing their expertise, which can impact the consistency of curriculum delivery across all subjects. While the curriculum is well-defined in many areas, there are a few subjects where the leadership is still in the early stages of development, leading to less secure learning outcomes for pupils.
Reading is a central focus of the school's curriculum, with pupils enjoying a variety of books and engaging in storytime activities. The phonics program has been strengthened, ensuring that pupils receive appropriate reading materials that match their abilities. This approach has contributed to the development of confident and fluent readers.
The school works closely with parents and professionals to support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with children in the Reception Year playing happily and following instructions promptly. The school promotes its Christian values, encouraging pupils to strive for excellence in their behavior and interactions.
To improve further, the school needs to provide high-quality training for new subject leaders to enhance their knowledge and support for curriculum development. Additionally, in some subjects, teachers require clearer guidance on the essential knowledge pupils should acquire and the appropriate timing for instruction. This clarity will help pupils build their knowledge logically and deepen their understanding over time.
Overall, Samlesbury Church of England School continues to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal development. The commitment of the leadership team and the positive relationships within the school community contribute to its ongoing success.
