Sylvester Primary Academy, located in Huyton, Liverpool, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in October 2019. The school fosters a supportive and safe environment where pupils feel proud to attend. The community collaborates effectively to create a positive atmosphere, ensuring that students are well cared for from the moment they arrive. Pupils exhibit good behavior, aided by initiatives such as playground pals and anti-bullying ambassadors, which promote a culture of respect and kindness. While some name-calling occurs, instances of bullying are rare, and staff handle any issues promptly and effectively.
The leadership team is described as caring and supportive, particularly regarding the mental and physical well-being of both staff and students. High expectations are set for pupils, who demonstrate diligence in their work and collaborate well with peers. A love for reading is evident among students, which enhances their learning across various subjects. The school excels in subjects like history, science, and physical education, with pupils expressing enjoyment in these areas. Additionally, a variety of after-school clubs, including sports and musical activities, provide further enrichment opportunities.
The early years curriculum is well-structured, focusing on early reading and mathematical skills. Staff create engaging learning experiences both indoors and outdoors, effectively using questioning techniques to assess understanding. The curriculum is designed to ensure that children are well-prepared for Year 1. Overall, the school has established a comprehensive curriculum that supports achievement in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of key stage two. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs receive appropriate support to help them succeed alongside their peers.
Reading has been prioritized, with staff skilled in teaching phonics and ensuring that children are familiar with necessary letter sounds by the end of the academic year. Pupils take home books that align with their learning, fostering confidence and fluency in reading. The mathematics curriculum is also a strong point, with clear guidelines on what pupils should learn and when. Teachers effectively build pupils' mathematical knowledge, enabling them to tackle challenging problems and perform well in assessments.
While subjects like geography and art have established curriculum plans, some teachers do not consistently follow these guidelines, which can hinder the development of knowledge over time. Leaders are actively working to address this issue to ensure that pupils build a solid foundation in these subjects. Personal development is a notable strength, with the curriculum offering numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about self-care and well-being. Regular trips and visitors enhance pupils' understanding of diverse cultures and faiths, promoting sensitivity to the needs of others.
The leadership team emphasizes teamwork among staff and prioritizes their well-being. The school maintains a positive relationship with the Wade Deacon Trust, which provides valuable training and support for subject leaders. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong focus on the safety of both staff and pupils. The leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring that all staff are vigilant in identifying and addressing safeguarding concerns.
To improve, the school must ensure that curriculum plans for subjects like geography and art are consistently implemented by all teachers. Leaders should monitor the quality of pupils' knowledge in these areas to ensure that learning builds progressively over time. Overall, Sylvester Primary Academy continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on personal development, well-being, and academic achievement.
