Brownlow Fold Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 February 2026

Pupils are embraced in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that helps them to feel safe and valued. Pupils welcome visitors proudly with confidence and charisma. Attendance is regular. This supports friendships and participation in school life. Relationships between pupils and staff are positive. Pupils are respectful and considerate towards each other. Behaviour is orderly, and pupils show positive attitudes to learning. The presence of the school dog, Teddy Cheung, further strengthens the nurturing environment by offering a comforting and positive influence on pupils’ wellbeing. Pupils enjoy learning. Many can talk articulately about what they have learned. The curriculum is broad and carefully ordered. It is typically delivered well. This helps pupils to know more and remember more over time. Academic outcomes in national tests are secure overall. From low starting points, most pupils achieve well. Staff identify pupils who may be at risk of not progressing as well as they intend and provide appropriate support. Leaders work with determination to remove barriers to pupils' learning and wellbeing. Disadvantaged pupils, pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those known or previously known to children’s social care are monitored closely. They are fully included in school life and receive appropriate support that helps them to progress. Practical assistance for families and thoughtful pastoral support also help to reduce barriers and raise pupils’ aspirations. Pupils benefit from a well-considered approach to learning beyond the academic curriculum. They gain an age-appropriate understanding of healthy lifestyles, relationships and people’s different beliefs. This supports their preparation for life in modern Britain. Leadership roles, charity work and community activities help pupils understand how to contribute positively to school life and to the wider community. The ‘Brownlow bucket list’ broadens pupils’ experiences and inspires them. The Year 6 residential trip helps pupils to develop confidence, independence and resilience. Pupils know that bullying is rare. They are confident that adults deal with any concerns quickly and effectively.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should refine how well staff check pupils' transcription and vocabulary knowledge, helping to ensure that all pupils, particularly lower attaining pupils, secure these foundational skills as well as they can.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils develop a secure understanding of the fundamental British values and the different ways that discrimination can occur.
• Governors should further strengthen their assurance practices in specific aspects of the school’s development work so that their oversight, support and challenge are consistently robust across all areas.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)