Over Kellet Wilson’s Endowed Church of England Primary School is a caring and inclusive institution located in Carnforth, Lancashire. The recent inspection conducted on April 24 and 25, 2024, concluded that the school maintains a good standard of overall effectiveness, with consistent ratings of good across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has successfully fostered a positive environment where pupils feel happy and valued, reflecting its core values of friendship and respect. Relationships among pupils are warm and supportive, contributing to a culture of kindness and thoughtfulness.
Pupils exhibit commendable behavior during lessons and at playtimes, adhering to the school’s rules and appreciating the recognition they receive for their positive choices. The school sets high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they are engaged and motivated to learn. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad range of experiences, including various trips and extracurricular activities that extend beyond the academic framework. Pupils have expressed enthusiasm for activities such as archery, fencing, and judo, as well as city visits and residential trips, which help them discover new interests and talents.
The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as house captains and sports leaders, fostering a sense of pride and community involvement. Older pupils serve as buddies to younger children, promoting a culture of care and support. The school also emphasizes the importance of community service, teaching pupils how they can positively impact others through charitable efforts.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum's quality. Staff in key stages one and two have gained clarity regarding essential learning objectives, which has improved the overall educational experience. However, there are still some subjects, particularly in the early years, where the school is refining the specific knowledge that pupils should acquire and the timing of instruction. This occasionally leads to challenges in delivering a comprehensive learning experience, affecting the depth of subject knowledge for some pupils.
Staff training has been effective, equipping educators with the necessary skills to deliver the curriculum effectively. Most staff utilize appropriate resources and strategies to facilitate learning, and they generally explain new concepts clearly. The school has established systems for monitoring curriculum delivery, although there are instances where these systems could be utilized more effectively to address inconsistencies in teaching practices.
Pupils demonstrate a strong enthusiasm for reading, benefiting from a well-structured phonics program that supports their development into fluent readers. The school promptly identifies the additional needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing staff with the guidance needed to support these learners effectively. As a result, pupils with SEND typically achieve well across the curriculum.
The school also offers a rich array of experiences that broaden pupils' understanding of the world, including lessons on healthy relationships and safety. This prepares them for life in modern Britain. Governors play an active role in supporting the school’s mission to enhance educational quality while ensuring that staff workloads remain manageable. Overall, the school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on refining its curriculum and ensuring consistent delivery across all subjects.
