Rainford CofE Primary School, located in St Helens, Merseyside, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 27 and 28, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Anya Richardson, the school is part of the Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Laurie Kwissa and governed by a board of trustees chaired by Margaret Swinson.
Pupils at Rainford CofE Primary School report feeling safe and happy, with a strong emphasis on high expectations for learning. The school fosters a hard-working environment where students achieve well and are prepared for the next stages of their education. The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Students express enjoyment in their lessons, and early years children adapt well to school life, laying a solid foundation for future learning.
The school maintains high standards of behavior, with most pupils meeting these expectations and interacting positively during lessons and breaks. Staff provide effective support for those who require additional help in managing their behavior and emotions. Pupils appreciate the variety of extracurricular opportunities available, such as participating in sports competitions, performing in productions, and caring for school chickens. The school actively engages with the local community, contributing to events like Education Sunday and the Christmas tree festival.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. This starts in the early years, where children receive a strong start. Across the school, pupils effectively recall and apply prior knowledge, particularly in mathematics, preparing them for secondary education. Teachers generally deliver the curriculum effectively, introducing new concepts clearly and utilizing their subject expertise to explain complex ideas. Assessment strategies are used appropriately to gauge pupil understanding, allowing for necessary revisions of essential knowledge.
The early reading program is fully integrated, with teachers trained to implement the phonics scheme effectively. Staff quickly identify pupils needing extra reading support, ensuring timely assistance to help them catch up. Initiatives to promote reading have been introduced, including sharing reading schemes with parents to enhance home support. Pupils enjoy a diverse range of high-quality texts provided by the school.
The school identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs swiftly, and most receive adequate support to achieve their best. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in providing teachers with precise information about pupils with more complex needs, which can hinder effective curriculum adaptation.
Pupils are engaged in lessons and understand expectations, with established routines across classrooms. Occasionally, a few pupils may not meet behavior expectations, but new systems have been implemented to address these issues, leading to improved behavior.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is effective, covering essential topics such as appropriate language, relationships, and British values. Teachers are responsive to contemporary issues, adapting lessons as needed. Pupils take on leadership roles seriously and demonstrate a willingness to support one another.
Trustees and governors are knowledgeable and provide effective challenge and support to the school. Staff appreciate the consideration given to their well-being, with strategies in place to reduce workload and opportunities for professional development.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to enhance support for teachers working with pupils with complex special educational needs to ensure all students can learn effectively.
