Penwortham Priory Academy
Crow Hills Road, Penwortham, Preston, PR1 0JE
Crow Hills Road, Penwortham, Preston, PR1 0JE
Pupils
797
Ages
11 - 16
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Academy Converter
Head Teacher
Mr M Eastham
Penwortham Priory Academy, a Co-educational school catering for students aged 11-16, has a total of 797 pupils enrolled. With 55% boys and 45% girls, the school boasts a diverse student body. In terms of academic performance, 22% of students scored highly in key stage 2, while 60% met the standard requirements. However, 18% of students fell into the lower cohort, indicating room for improvement.
The school’s pastoral care is commendable, with 2% of students having SEN statements and EHC plans. Additionally, 7% of students follow English as an additional language, showcasing the school’s commitment to inclusivity. The well-being of students is a top priority, ensuring all faiths are respected and supported.
Penwortham Priory Academy offers a range of extra-curricular activities, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests outside of the classroom. This holistic approach to education enhances the overall learning experience and fosters personal growth.
The atmosphere at Penwortham Priory Academy is welcoming and supportive, creating a conducive environment for learning. With an average score of 104.7, the school is dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential.
In conclusion, Penwortham Priory Academy is a vibrant and inclusive school that prioritizes academic excellence, well-being, and personal development. Parents and students alike can look forward to forthcoming open days to experience the school’s ethos firsthand.
Students Reaching
Expected Standards
60%
National Average: 65%
Students Reaching
High Standards
45%
National Average: 11%
Penwortham Priory Academy, located in Preston, Lancashire, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The recent inspection, conducted in March 2020, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, reflecting the positive changes implemented by the school's leadership. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, indicating a well-rounded and effective educational environment.
Pupils at Penwortham Priory Academy generally report feeling happy and safe. They express trust in the staff to address any issues, including rare instances of bullying. Observations during the inspection showed that students behaved sensibly both in lessons and throughout the school. Feedback from pupils indicated that behavior is predominantly good, with teachers effectively managing any poor behavior. The school fosters a culture of politeness and consideration among students.
The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. The high expectations set by staff have led to improved learning outcomes, with pupils now achieving more than in previous years. The curriculum has been enhanced to be more ambitious, resulting in better performance in external examinations. The school has made strides in ensuring that pupils understand and appreciate diversity, preparing them for their roles in modern society through initiatives like daily learning for life lessons.
Extracurricular activities are well-supported, with many pupils participating in clubs such as astronomy and various sports. The recent production of We Will Rock You was particularly successful, showcasing the talents of the students and the commitment of the staff to provide enriching experiences.
Despite the overall positive assessment, there are areas for further improvement. While some subjects, particularly mathematics, have seen significant advancements, others, such as science and history, are still in the early stages of development. The school recognizes the need to provide additional support to ensure that all subjects improve uniformly. The low proportion of pupils entered for the English Baccalaureate is another area of concern, as many students are not studying the full range of qualifications that comprise it. Leaders are encouraged to increase participation in the EBacc to align with their ambitious goals for all students.
Attendance rates are generally in line with national averages; however, disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs attend less regularly. This discrepancy could hinder the progress made in improving outcomes for these groups. The leadership team is focused on developing strategies to enhance attendance among these students.
The safeguarding measures in place at the school are effective, with thorough checks on new staff and regular training to ensure that all staff can identify and respond to potential risks to pupils. Collaboration with external agencies further supports vulnerable students, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance.
In summary, Penwortham Priory Academy has made commendable progress in various aspects of its operation, resulting in a good rating from inspectors. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on enhancing the quality of education across all subjects and ensuring that all pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, receive the support they need to succeed.
Last Updated: 9 December 2024
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