Lower Darwen Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 21 March 2023

Pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are happy to attend each day and they are proud of their school. They feel that they are supported well by their teachers and other staff. This helps them to feel safe in school. Leaders have ensured that pupils are eager to help each other, whether this be with learning or at playtimes. Pupils, including those who attend the specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND (specially resourced provision), are confident, articulate ambassadors. Added to this, they have many opportunities to represent the school, for example in different sporting competitions. Leaders have high expectations of what pupils can achieve, regardless of their background or the challenges that they may face. Similarly, leaders expect the best of pupils' behaviour. Pupils value the rewards that they receive for positive behaviour. They are keen to do their best, and take pride in their work. Pupils behave calmly and courteously at social times. Staff deal with incidents of bullying quickly and effectively. When appropriate, leaders ensure that staff are trained well to help and support pupils to resolve any friendship issues that may arise. The school sits at the heart of the local community. Parents and carers value the support offered by staff. For example, staff signpost where families can go to get practical help that they might need.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, leaders have not ensured that the specific building blocks of knowledge that pupils should learn are clear enough to teachers. In these subjects, teachers are less able to design learning that supports pupils to build logically on what they already know. Leaders should ensure that teachers have the information that they need to design learning for pupils that builds sequentially towards ambitious end-points.
• In a few subjects, some teachers have not received the support and training that they need to deliver some aspects of the curriculum with confidence. On occasion, this prevents some staff from choosing the most appropriate activities to help pupils to learn the intended curriculum. Leaders should ensure that all staff are equipped well to design learning for pupils.

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