Baines School, located in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, underwent an inspection on October 31 and November 1, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, which reflects ongoing challenges in various areas of the educational experience. The quality of education was also deemed to require improvement, while behavior and attitudes were rated as good. Personal development, as well as leadership and management, were both found to require improvement.
Most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, expressed enjoyment in attending Baines School and felt well-supported by their teachers. Recent changes to behavior management systems have established stronger routines, helping pupils engage more effectively with their learning. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, such as camping experiences for Year 7 pupils, which foster friendships and confidence. Additionally, pupils take pride in participating in the school’s annual musical performance, contributing to a sense of belonging.
The governing body has raised expectations for pupil achievement and has worked to improve the curriculum. While the revised curriculum is ambitious and designed to support all pupils, including those with SEND, inconsistencies in its delivery across subjects have led to uneven pupil achievement. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, but the implementation of the new curriculum varies, affecting the effectiveness of learning activities. Some teachers struggle with assessment strategies, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge going unnoticed, which hinders their overall learning progress.
The school has made strides in addressing poor behavior, with most pupils appreciating the improvements. Classrooms are generally calm and conducive to learning, allowing pupils to enjoy their social interactions. Parents are involved in discussions regarding their children’s learning and behavior, facilitating effective support for struggling pupils. The school has successfully identified and supported pupils in key stage 3 who have reading difficulties, helping them become confident readers. However, this support is not consistently extended to key stage 4, where older pupils with reading gaps do not receive the necessary assistance.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-designed and effectively taught, equipping pupils with knowledge about health and safety. However, the promotion of diversity within the school is less developed, resulting in some pupils lacking awareness of societal differences. This gap can lead to the use of derogatory language without understanding its impact, leaving pupils less prepared for life in modern Britain.
The school provides various opportunities for pupils to engage with the world of work, enhancing their future aspirations through exposure to different professions. The governing body demonstrates a clear understanding of its role and effectively challenges the school to improve. Staff members appreciate the support provided and feel proud to work at Baines School.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils. To improve, the school must ensure consistent implementation of the revised curriculum across subjects, enhance assessment strategies to identify knowledge gaps, and provide adequate support for older pupils struggling with reading. Additionally, promoting and celebrating diversity within the school community is essential for preparing pupils for life in a diverse society.