Padiham Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 February 2023

Pupils are proud and happy to be members of this exceptionally welcoming school. In lessons and around the school, pupils behave well. They learn to respect differences. As one pupil said, 'We are all equal and all unique.' Older pupils take pride in their leadership roles and are role models for others. For example, the 'sports crew' organise playtime activities for younger pupils. Leaders set high expectations of work and behaviour for all pupils at the school. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), behave well and achieve well. Pupils enjoy their learning, both in school and in the wider community. For example, they take part in trips to the theatre and visit local places of interest. Pupils spoke with enthusiasm about learning to fish at the local river. They benefit from camping trips. They particularly enjoy playtimes and the many activities that leaders provide in the school's spacious and well-resourced grounds. Warm and friendly relationships are evident between staff and pupils. Pupils are encouraged to share any worries they may have with adults in the school. This helps pupils feel safe and cared for. Should incidents of bullying occur, leaders take effective action.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, subject leaders have not fully considered the knowledge that children need to develop in the Reception Year to be well prepared for later learning. This means that, in these subjects, leaders cannot be sure that pupils build their learning in a well-ordered way as they move from the Reception Year into Year 1 and beyond. Leaders should ensure that subject leaders further develop their understanding of the steps in learning that children need to make in the Reception Year in order to build firm foundations for later learning.
• Governors have not undertaken recent checks on the effectiveness of the curriculum in subjects other than English and mathematics. This means that they have not assured themselves of the quality of education in these subjects. They should ensure that they develop their understanding of how effectively subject curriculums help pupils to achieve well. Governors should gather and use information about the effectiveness of the curriculum to challenge leaders appropriately.

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