Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School in Carnforth has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14, 2022. The school is characterized by its small size and welcoming atmosphere, where all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are encouraged to meet high expectations set by the leadership. Pupils demonstrate a strong work ethic and enjoy their lessons, with most exhibiting good behavior. The school has a low incidence of bullying, and students feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff.
The staff at Our Lady of Lourdes prioritize the safety and happiness of their pupils. Initiatives such as visits from Harold the Giraffe and lessons on Pantasaurus help students learn about health and safety. Pupils take pride in their school and engage in various responsibilities, including roles in the school council and as sports captains. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including football, bowls, and eco-club, which contribute to a vibrant school community.
The leadership team has implemented an ambitious and engaging curriculum, clearly outlining the essential knowledge and skills for pupils from early years through to the rest of the school. Teachers are well-equipped to lead their subjects, having received extensive training. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent use of assessment strategies across some subjects. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in pupils' learning, as opportunities to revisit previously learned material are sometimes lacking. Additionally, in certain subjects outside of English and mathematics, the selection of activities may not always be optimal for reinforcing the curriculum.
Reading is a central focus at Our Lady of Lourdes, with a strong emphasis on developing a love for reading from an early age. Phonics instruction begins in the Reception class, and staff ensure that reading materials align with the sounds pupils are learning. Those who struggle with reading are quickly identified and receive the necessary support to help them achieve fluency and accuracy.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs, and collaborates with external agencies to provide appropriate support. This ensures that all pupils can access the curriculum alongside their peers. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a calm atmosphere in lessons. While a few pupils may struggle with emotional regulation, staff are skilled in managing these situations, minimizing disruptions to learning.
Leaders promote personal development effectively, providing pupils with opportunities to learn about life in modern Britain through various visits and exchanges with schools abroad. The governing body has a solid understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development, and staff appreciate the leadership's consideration of their workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are robust, with staff receiving regular training and knowing how to respond to concerns about pupil welfare. Pupils are educated on maintaining safe and healthy relationships, healthy eating, and online safety.
To enhance the quality of education further, the school needs to strengthen its assessment systems in a few subjects to ensure that teachers can quickly address any gaps in pupils' knowledge. Additionally, leaders should provide more guidance to teachers in selecting the most effective activities for delivering the curriculum. Overall, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
