Rice Lane Primary School and Nursery, located in Liverpool, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 10 and 11, 2023. The school provides a safe and welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and enjoy their time with friends, particularly during break times. The curriculum has been revised to offer increased challenges, and pupils demonstrate curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. They are able to recall and apply their knowledge effectively, leading to strong academic achievements across various subjects.
In the early years, children learn the importance of politeness, friendliness, and respect. Throughout the school, pupils are encouraged to uphold the school's charter, resulting in good behavior during lessons and on the playground. As they progress, pupils gain confidence and independence, with older students taking on leadership roles that contribute to the smooth operation of the school. Staff provide effective support to pupils, particularly those with worries, which has positively impacted attendance rates.
The school has raised its expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The support for these pupils, especially those in the specially resourced provision, has improved significantly. The curriculum is well-structured and meets the needs of all students, preparing them for their next educational stages. Teachers consistently deliver the curriculum from Nursery to Year 6, ensuring that learning is presented logically and builds on prior knowledge. This approach helps pupils practice and retain what they have learned, fostering a rich understanding across the curriculum.
Reading has been prioritized to address previous weaknesses in phonics knowledge. The school has implemented a robust reading program, with staff receiving regular training to enhance their teaching methods. Early years pupils engage enthusiastically with songs, stories, and rhymes, laying a strong foundation for their reading skills. Most pupils develop into fluent readers who find enjoyment in reading. However, some older pupils in key stage two still face challenges in reading fluency, which can hinder their access to the wider curriculum. The school is actively working to provide additional support to help these pupils catch up.
The recent overhaul of SEND provision has equipped teachers with the necessary resources and guidance to meet the diverse needs of their students. While some new systems are still being implemented, there are instances where pupils with SEND do not learn as effectively as they should. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils can fully access the curriculum.
The school also emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, encouraging them to learn about diversity and respect differing viewpoints. Pupils are able to articulate their thoughts on various social issues, demonstrating their preparedness for future challenges. The school collaborates closely with staff to enhance educational quality while considering their well-being. Parents and carers are encouraged to engage in their children's learning, with many expressing appreciation for the opportunities to discuss the curriculum with staff.
The safeguarding arrangements at Rice Lane Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is dedicated to continuous improvement and is focused on addressing the areas identified for development, particularly in supporting pupils with SEND and enhancing reading skills for older students. Overall, Rice Lane Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal growth.
