Adlington St Paul’s Church of England Primary School, located in Chorley, Lancashire, underwent its first routine inspection since becoming an academy in January 2019. The inspection took place on March 21 and 22, 2023, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, reflecting the positive changes implemented since the school was last inspected.
Pupils at Adlington St Paul’s are reported to be happy and engaged in their learning. They enjoy their lessons and appreciate the supportive and caring nature of their teachers, who create a fun and safe environment. Incidents of bullying are addressed promptly, ensuring a secure atmosphere for all students. The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to excel, particularly in sports and music, with activities such as preparation for local cross-country competitions being highlighted during the inspection.
The leadership team has set high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambition has translated into improved academic outcomes across various subjects. The curriculum has been thoroughly revised, with a clear framework outlining what pupils will learn from early years through to Year 6. This structured approach allows for regular revisiting of knowledge, aiding long-term retention.
Teachers effectively assess pupils' understanding during lessons, using this information to address any misconceptions. The school has established robust systems to identify and support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Subject leaders conduct checks on curriculum delivery, although there is still room for improvement in monitoring and supporting teachers more effectively.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with leaders promoting a love of literature through connections with local authors and a well-implemented phonics programme. Children begin this programme in Reception, and those needing additional support receive targeted help, resulting in pupils becoming confident and fluent readers.
In the early years, teachers establish clear routines and foster positive relationships, which contribute to appropriate behaviour. Throughout the school, pupils demonstrate good conduct, allowing for uninterrupted learning. They maintain a positive attitude towards their education and have high attendance rates. Social interactions during breaks are also positive, with pupils forming strong friendships.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders lack sufficient oversight of curriculum delivery, which limits their ability to support teachers effectively. Additionally, the systems for recording and evaluating behaviour incidents could be strengthened to help leaders identify patterns and respond to issues proactively.
Leaders are committed to fostering an understanding of equality among pupils, who engage confidently in discussions about diversity. Experiences such as visits to the Town Hall enhance their understanding of democracy and prepare them for future transitions to high school and adult life.
Governance at the school is strong, with trustees actively involved in the school's operations. Leaders have created a supportive environment for staff, which has resulted in high morale and a positive workplace culture. Staff appreciate the efforts made to manage their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Adlington St Paul’s are effective, with well-trained staff who can identify and act on welfare concerns. Pupils receive education on online safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves in the digital world.
In summary, Adlington St Paul’s Church of England Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in education and pupil welfare. The school is well-positioned to continue its development, with a clear focus on improving curriculum oversight and behaviour management systems to further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
