Oswaldtwistle West End Primary School, located in Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 10 and 11, 2024. The headteacher, James McBride, leads the school, which is part of the LET Education Trust, overseen by CEO Steve Campbell and chaired by Jenny Woodward. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel happy and well-supported. The staff is dedicated to understanding the needs of each pupil, providing the necessary support for their success, which fosters a sense of safety and care among students.
The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve well, and it has made significant improvements to its curriculum. These enhancements have positively impacted pupils' learning across most subjects. Staff members are attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate adaptations to support their learning. The school environment encourages pupils to learn and play together, with well-resourced grounds that facilitate various activities during break times. Older pupils take on leadership roles, guiding younger students in social interactions and behavior.
Oswaldtwistle West End Primary School emphasizes the development of kind and caring citizens. Pupils engage in community activities, such as litter picking, and learn about environmental issues, fostering a sense of responsibility towards their surroundings. The school choir participates in community events, further enhancing pupils' connection to the local area.
The curriculum has been strengthened, allowing for a structured progression of knowledge across most subjects. Staff members are well-trained and effectively deliver the curriculum, regularly assessing pupil progress, including those with special educational needs. However, in a few subjects, the essential knowledge required for future learning has not been clearly defined, which can lead to gaps in pupils' understanding.
Reading is a central focus of the school's curriculum, starting in the Reception Year, where children are introduced to language through stories and rhymes. The phonics program has been enhanced, with pupils reading books that align with their phonics knowledge. While older pupils receive adequate support to read confidently, some younger pupils who struggle with phonics do not receive timely assistance to catch up, which can hinder their development as fluent readers.
The school promotes a culture of kindness and respect among pupils and staff. Expectations for behavior are clearly communicated, beginning in the Reception Year. Most pupils are engaged and attentive in class, and those needing additional behavioral support receive effective assistance. Pupils are eager to take on responsibilities, such as serving as school councillors and play leaders.
Attendance is closely monitored, with most pupils attending regularly. The school takes prompt action when attendance issues arise. Beyond academics, the school fosters personal development, teaching pupils to appreciate diversity and value differences. Partnerships with local special schools enhance pupils' understanding of the broader community.
Trustees and governors are well-informed about the school, and effective processes are in place to monitor pupil learning. Staff share expertise across the trust, which helps reduce their workload and supports their well-being. Staff members take pride in their work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school needs to refine its curriculum in a few subjects to clarify essential knowledge and enhance support for younger pupils struggling with phonics. Overall, Oswaldtwistle West End Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
