The Olive School Blackburn, located in Lancashire, is a three-form entry Muslim faith-based primary school that opened in September 2013. The school has quickly established a reputation for excellence, achieving an outstanding rating in its first full inspection by Ofsted in June 2015. The inspection highlighted the school's remarkable leadership and management, which are characterized by a strong commitment to educational excellence and a relentless focus on improving teaching quality and student achievement. The headteacher is noted for her enthusiasm and exemplary teaching skills, which serve as a model for the staff.
The school promotes an inclusive environment where all pupils, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to excel academically and develop as well-rounded individuals. The quality of teaching is described as inspirational, with lessons that are engaging and effective in fostering a love of learning among students. The curriculum is broad and balanced, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, with a strong emphasis on respect for different cultures and faiths.
Pupils at The Olive School Blackburn demonstrate outstanding behavior and safety. They are polite, courteous, and eager to learn, with attendance rates that are exceptionally high. The school has established effective relationships with parents and the local community, contributing to its positive reputation. The pupils' behavior is exemplary, and they show a high level of respect for themselves and others. They feel safe in the school environment and are well-informed about how to stay safe in various contexts, including online.
The achievement of pupils is outstanding, with all groups making rapid progress from their starting points. The school has consistently high standards in early years provision, with a significant proportion of pupils reaching a good level of development by the end of their Reception Year. In Key Stage 1, pupils have made exceptional progress, particularly in mathematics, and the school’s phonics screening results are well above the national average. The progress continues into Key Stage 2, where pupils are on track to achieve high levels of attainment.
The early years provision is also rated as outstanding, with effective leadership and a stimulating learning environment that supports children's development. The staff are well-trained and use innovative teaching methods to engage children, ensuring they make excellent progress. The school’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment is evident in the strong pastoral care offered to pupils, particularly those facing challenges.
Overall, The Olive School Blackburn exemplifies a high-performing educational institution that prioritizes academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement. The school's leadership, teaching quality, and supportive environment contribute to the outstanding outcomes for its pupils, making it a model for other schools in the region. The school is well-positioned for continued success as it grows and evolves, maintaining its focus on delivering exceptional educational experiences for all its students.
