Darwen, St Barnabas CofE Primary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 March 2023

Pupils, and children in the early years, arrive at school happy and ready to learn. They look forward to the warm welcome that they receive every morning. Parents and carers appreciate that their children can benefit from the school's nurturing atmosphere. Leaders have high expectations for pupils, and pupils do their utmost to live up to these. Pupils work hard during lessons and behave well at social times. Pupils recognise the importance of trying their best and how this approach will serve them well in later life. Pupils feel safe in school and they know that adults in school will support them to look after their mental health and well-being. Pupils understand what bullying is and know that they can talk to a trusted adult if they have any concerns. Leaders act swiftly and effectively when incidents of bullying are reported. The systems that leaders have in place ensure that pupils feel well supported and that friendships are rebuilt. Pupils look forward to taking on roles of responsibility. For example, they are keen to be involved in the worship our way (WOW) group, or acting as well-being warriors or 'rota kids'. These activities also encourage and allow pupils to play an important role in the local community as well as supporting those who may be less fortunate.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, some teachers do not design learning that supports pupils to build their knowledge securely and cumulatively over time. As a result, some pupils do not learn as well as they should. Leaders should ensure that, in these subjects, staff receive the support that they need to ensure that pupils can make links with what they know already and build securely on earlier learning.

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