Wensley Fold Church of England Primary Academy, located in Blackburn, Lancashire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on September 13 and 14, 2023. The school has received an outstanding rating across all key areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This is a significant achievement, especially as it is the first inspection under the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to academy status.
The headteacher, Donna Simpson, leads the school, which is part of the Wensley Fold Church of England Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by John Leigh. The school serves a diverse community, with many pupils speaking English as an additional language. Despite this, students quickly develop strong language and communication skills, enabling them to excel academically. The curriculum is broad, exciting, and ambitious, catering for the varied needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils at Wensley Fold experience a rich educational environment filled with engaging learning opportunities. Classrooms are well-resourced, and outdoor spaces provide a beautiful setting for play and exploration. The school’s high expectations encourage pupils to strive for success, and they consistently achieve excellent outcomes in national tests. Behaviour throughout the school is exemplary, with pupils adhering to school rules and demonstrating respect for one another and staff. The school actively addresses any potential bullying, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all.
In addition to academic excellence, the school places a strong emphasis on personal development. Pupils have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, drama, and cooking clubs. Unique opportunities, such as caring for animals and training as beekeepers, foster pupils' interests and talents, preparing them for future life. The school also promotes a culture of respect and understanding, encouraging pupils to appreciate diverse perspectives and engage in community service.
The curriculum is meticulously organized, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. Teachers employ effective assessment strategies to identify gaps in learning and provide timely support. Reading is prioritized, with early years pupils learning phonics from the outset. The school fosters a love of reading through captivating books and storytelling, ensuring that all pupils develop strong literacy skills.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective communication between the school, parents, and external professionals to support pupils with special educational needs. The school’s leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring that the quality of education remains exceptional. Trustees actively monitor the school’s performance and consider the impact of decisions on staff workload.
Overall, Wensley Fold Church of England Primary Academy exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and community engagement prepares pupils exceptionally well for their future endeavors. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire school community, highlighting the school as a model of outstanding educational practice.
