Brinscall St John’s Church of England and Methodist Primary School in Chorley, Lancashire, has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on January 23 and 24, 2024, and assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good. The school was previously rated outstanding during its last inspection 11 years ago, reflecting a long gap between graded inspections due to legal exemptions.
The school prioritizes the happiness and well-being of its pupils, fostering an environment where students feel heard and supported. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and demonstrate kindness towards one another. The school maintains high expectations for student achievement, offering a broad and ambitious curriculum that enables most pupils to excel across various subjects by the end of Year 6. Students exhibit high levels of concentration and positive behavior, contributing to their academic success.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to school routines, learning essential social skills such as sharing and taking turns, which prepares them well for the transition to key stage one. The school provides numerous extracurricular opportunities, including sports, art, and music, allowing pupils to engage in school life actively. Leadership roles, such as school councillors and buddies for younger students, help develop their leadership skills. Pupils take pride in their achievements, celebrating successes during assemblies attended by parents and carers.
The curriculum is designed to be inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. In most subjects, the curriculum is well-structured, enabling pupils to build a solid foundation of knowledge over time. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively deliver the curriculum while enhancing pupils' communication skills. Assessment methods are generally well-utilized to gauge pupils' understanding, although some subjects require improvement in identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge.
Reading is emphasized throughout the school, with a phonics program introduced promptly in Reception Year. Skilled staff support children in developing their understanding of letters and sounds, ensuring that reading materials align with their knowledge. The school also provides additional support for pupils who struggle with phonics, helping them catch up with their peers. Pupils read regularly and enjoy a diverse range of texts, eagerly anticipating the use of a new library they helped design.
The school effectively identifies the additional needs of pupils with SEND, providing staff with the necessary training and information to support these students. This ensures that pupils with SEND can learn alongside their peers and participate fully in school life. The school promotes positive attitudes towards learning, encouraging independence and pride in work. Staff are quick to redirect pupils when focus wanes, maintaining a conducive learning environment.
Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, learning about safety in various contexts and the importance of physical and mental health. A range of trips and visits enriches their classroom learning. The governing body is knowledgeable and committed, providing appropriate challenges to support the school's ongoing improvement. Staff feel valued and are regularly consulted about initiatives affecting their workload and well-being.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To enhance its performance further, the school should focus on equipping teachers in certain subjects to better identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
