Lever Edge Primary Academy, located in Bolton, Lancashire, was inspected by Ofsted on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas of strength identified in the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and outstanding performance in personal development and early years provision. This inspection marked the first evaluation of the school since it became an academy in January 2011, following a previous outstanding rating for its predecessor school.
The school fosters a welcoming and supportive community where pupils feel valued and respected. Leaders and staff emphasize the importance of treating everyone with kindness, which contributes to a positive atmosphere. Pupils report strong friendships and a sense of safety and happiness within the school environment. The high expectations set by leaders encourage pupils to be resilient and work diligently, resulting in commendable academic achievements.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and attentiveness during lessons. The school has effective systems in place to address bullying, ensuring that any incidents are dealt with promptly and effectively. Additionally, pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as managing the school library and participating in community activities, which helps build their confidence and prepares them for future challenges.
The curriculum at Lever Edge Primary Academy is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully mapped out the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire and the timing of its delivery. The early years curriculum is particularly effective, with most children being well-prepared for the transition to Year 1.
Teachers consistently deliver the English and mathematics curriculums effectively, introducing new concepts in a manner that builds on prior knowledge. This approach ensures that by the end of Year 6, pupils are well-equipped for the next stage of their education. However, in some subjects, there are inconsistencies in curriculum delivery, leading to gaps in pupils' subject-specific vocabulary, which can hinder their future learning.
The school places a strong emphasis on phonics, with leaders ensuring that the phonics program is implemented consistently. Pupils receive timely support to help them catch up if they fall behind, and new arrivals are integrated into the phonics program immediately. Reading is promoted throughout the school, with high-quality texts being integral to the learning experience. Pupils in key stage 1 read books that align with their phonics knowledge, while those in key stage 2 have access to a diverse range of literature.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff receiving regular training to identify and address potential risks to pupils. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, including online safety, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about risks and how to protect themselves.
Overall, Lever Edge Primary Academy is a school that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils. The leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring that all pupils receive a quality education. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent curriculum delivery across all subjects, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. The supportive environment, strong leadership, and focus on personal development contribute to a school culture that prepares pupils for success in their future endeavors.
