Farington Moss St Paul’s C.E. Primary School in Leyland, Lancashire, was inspected on December 13 and 14, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They exhibit politeness and good manners, fostering a culture of mutual respect between students and staff. As pupils progress through the school, they are given various opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute to school life, such as assisting younger children and leading library clubs and assemblies.
The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that supports pupils in building their knowledge over time. The early years curriculum effectively prepares children for their transition into key stage one. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and deliver the curriculum well for most pupils. However, there are challenges in adapting the curriculum for some pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, which can hinder their access to learning and achievement.
Pupils generally behave well in lessons and during social times, adhering to the high expectations set by school leaders. While incidents of bullying do occur, they are managed effectively by the leadership team, which is committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed. The school prioritizes reading, with frequent story times and access to the library, helping pupils develop a strong foundation in literacy. Staff have received training in the phonics program, which is implemented consistently, allowing pupils who require additional support to receive tailored assistance.
Leaders have established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that staff are well-trained in identifying and reporting concerns regarding pupils' welfare. The school educates pupils on maintaining safety, including online safety. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that teachers are equipped to adapt their teaching for pupils with special educational needs. Leaders need to enhance their monitoring of these pupils' learning to ensure they receive the appropriate support.
In terms of assessment, while teachers conduct checks on pupils' learning in many subjects, there is still work to be done in developing effective assessment strategies beyond English and mathematics. This can lead to uncertainty among teachers regarding what pupils have learned and what they still need to grasp.
The school’s leadership is proactive in supporting pupils' personal development, teaching them about healthy relationships and physical health. External speakers contribute to the curriculum by discussing various world religions, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. The governing body is engaged and fulfills its statutory duties effectively, while leaders consider staff workload and well-being, which is appreciated by the staff.
Overall, Farington Moss St Paul’s C.E. Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas that require attention, particularly regarding the adaptation of the curriculum for pupils with special educational needs and the development of assessment practices, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students. The positive atmosphere, strong leadership, and focus on personal development contribute to a solid foundation for pupils' educational journeys.
