Belthorn Academy Primary School, located in Blackburn, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 28 and 29, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Melanie Furness, the school is part of the Belthorn Academy Primary School Academy Trust, which is overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Emma Nolan. The school community is described as happy and close-knit, with staff who know the pupils and their families well, fostering strong relationships and a sense of security among students. Pupils enjoy positive interactions with their classmates during break times, contributing to a safe and supportive environment.
The school sets high expectations for pupil achievement, particularly in core subjects like English and mathematics. The results from the Year 1 phonics screening check indicate that nearly all pupils met the required standards last year. Students express appreciation for the diverse range of extracurricular activities available, which change according to their interests. Popular clubs include roller-skating, sewing, chess, and boxercise. Additionally, pupils take pride in participating in community and school fundraising efforts, currently working towards raising funds for a school minibus.
The school has established clear expectations for learning across all subjects, particularly in English and mathematics, where the curriculum is broken down into manageable steps. This structured approach enables pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to build a solid foundation of knowledge over time. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and regularly assess pupil understanding, providing guidance that helps correct misconceptions.
However, the inspection revealed that some subjects do not have as well-developed curriculums, which can lead to gaps in pupil learning. In these areas, students may miss out on important content, limiting their opportunities to deepen their knowledge. The school is encouraged to review and enhance these curriculums to ensure a comprehensive educational experience for all pupils.
The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and works collaboratively with external partners to provide necessary support. Children in the Nursery Year quickly adapt to classroom routines and meet the school's high behavioral expectations, fostering a love of learning from an early age. As pupils progress through the school, they maintain their enthusiasm for education, actively participating in class discussions and demonstrating a positive attitude towards their work.
Attendance is a priority, and the school implements various rewards and support systems to encourage high levels of attendance among pupils. The commitment to fostering a love of reading is evident, with pupils engaging in a wide range of reading activities and enjoying stories read by their teachers. This approach helps develop their understanding of moral and cultural themes present in literature.
The school excels in promoting pupils' personal development, aligning with its motto of lighting the sparks in children. A variety of opportunities are provided to help pupils discover their passions and talents, including trips to museums, local sports events, and skills lessons. The curriculum is designed to connect learning topics with potential career aspirations, and pupils are encouraged to explore different cultures and religions through visits to places of worship. The school also supports older pupils during their transition to high school, maintaining contact with families to ensure a smooth adjustment.
Staff at Belthorn Academy Primary School report high job satisfaction, with the school providing support to manage workloads effectively. Governors play an active role in the school's governance, demonstrating a clear understanding of their responsibilities. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, while Belthorn Academy Primary School continues to perform well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the development of certain subject curriculums. The school is encouraged to enhance these areas to ensure that all pupils receive a rich and coherent educational experience. Overall, the school maintains a strong commitment to its pupils' academic and personal growth, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.
