St Edward’s Roman Catholic Primary School Blackburn has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in January 2020. The school is characterized by a calm and welcoming atmosphere where trust and respect between staff and pupils are evident. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, and there is a strong sense of pride among staff, parents, and the community regarding the school. Pupils enjoy attending and report feeling safe, with instances of bullying being rare. Teachers address any issues promptly, contributing to a positive behavior environment both in lessons and throughout the school.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various roles, such as reading buddies and school councillors, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement. They take pride in their work and appreciate the diverse range of after-school clubs available, including homework and dancing clubs. The school promotes participation in sports, with many pupils representing the school in local tournaments, including a successful cricket team.
The leadership of the school is effective, with governors providing clear support and challenge to the school leaders. Teachers feel valued and supported, although some subject leaders are relatively new in their roles. The curriculum is designed to develop pupils' knowledge and skills, although the impact of this curriculum in certain subjects is still being assessed. The headteacher has prioritized reading, implementing a well-structured phonics curriculum that has proven effective, as evidenced by pupils achieving results comparable to national standards in phonics screening checks. Pupils express enthusiasm for the stories they encounter and engage in reading activities that align with their phonetic abilities.
The mathematics curriculum is also well-planned and effectively led, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge. Teachers revisit concepts as necessary to reinforce learning, and staff training ensures they remain skilled in delivering the curriculum. Early years pupils receive a strong foundation in mathematics, preparing them well for future learning. Historical education is well-structured, with pupils demonstrating a solid understanding of the periods studied and enjoying engaging lessons.
Leaders are ambitious for all pupils, ensuring that plans are tailored for those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as for disadvantaged pupils. This targeted support contributes to strong achievement across most subjects. Pupils exhibit a positive attitude towards learning, reflecting the emphasis on resilience fostered by school leaders. The curriculum also exposes pupils to various cultures and religions, enhancing their understanding of societal contributions. Notably, pupils have taken pride in initiatives such as fundraising for a local food bank.
The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, with well-trained staff who understand their responsibilities in keeping pupils safe. Leaders maintain strong relationships with pupils and their families, ensuring that vulnerable students receive timely support. Pupils are educated about internet safety and understand how to protect themselves outside of school.
To further improve, the school should focus on strengthening the influence of subject leaders to enhance the quality of education across all subjects. Overall, St Edward’s Roman Catholic Primary School Blackburn continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
