Victoria Road Primary School, located in Northwich, Cheshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 1st and 2nd of May 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, reflecting a positive environment for learning and development. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management have all been rated as good, while early years provision requires improvement. The school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, which also rated it as requiring improvement.
Under the leadership of executive headteacher Kathy Nichol, the school is part of the Aspire Educational Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The trust is led by CEO Kevin Simpson and a board of trustees chaired by Sue Bowen. The collaborative approach within the trust has contributed to the school’s progress and development.
Pupils at Victoria Road Primary School exhibit a strong enthusiasm for learning. They arrive at school each day greeted by supportive staff, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. The relationships between staff and students are notably strong, which enhances the readiness of pupils to engage in their education. The school’s values of inspire, nurture, and accomplish are evident in the behavior of the students, who listen attentively and participate actively in their lessons. The school has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they receive the support necessary to succeed.
While pupils in key stages one and two demonstrate a solid understanding of various subjects, there are concerns regarding the early years provision. Children in the early years do not build their knowledge as effectively as they should, which can hinder their preparedness for Year 1. The school recognizes this issue and is working to enhance the curriculum and teaching strategies in the early years to better support children’s learning.
Beyond academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including gardening, cooking, and sports clubs. These activities help pupils develop as active citizens, contributing to their local community through initiatives like litter picking and fundraising for schools in Kenya. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and safety, while also providing opportunities for leadership through roles such as house captains and mental health ambassadors.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges, particularly in the early years and in a few subjects where the curriculum design is not fully finalized. This lack of clarity can impede teachers' ability to effectively deliver lessons and assess pupil understanding. The school is committed to addressing these areas for improvement, ensuring that all staff have the necessary resources and training to provide high-quality education.
The school prioritizes early reading, with a well-structured phonics program that supports pupils in developing a love for reading. Staff are trained to deliver this program effectively, and additional support is provided to those who struggle. The school also ensures that the needs of pupils with SEND are identified and met, allowing them to learn alongside their peers.
Overall, Victoria Road Primary School is making commendable progress in providing a quality education for its pupils. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, and with the support of the Aspire Educational Trust, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and address the areas that require further development. The commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the diverse needs of all students is evident in the school’s practices and ethos.
