Sankey Valley St James Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 March 2026

Pupils at Sankey Valley arrive each morning to a warm welcome from staff who know them and their families well. They are keen to start the day and settle quickly to activities in class. Pupils behave well. They listen to each other and to their teachers, who help them build on what they already know. Pupils enjoy learning. By the end of Year 6, many achieve very well in national tests in reading and mathematics. They leave the school well prepared for secondary education. The school’s inclusive practice ensures that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, those who are disadvantaged or have other barriers to their learning are supported effectively. This enables pupils to access the curriculum well. They enjoy learning new things because teachers make sure that lessons are interesting and engaging. In the early years, children are well cared for. Children, including those in the 2-year-old provision, enjoy secure relationships with staff and with one another. The school has recently developed its provision for children in the Nursery class. This has enabled children to attend more sessions during the week. Leaders have also developed the early years curriculum to help children in the early years learn more. However, variations in the previous curriculum mean that some children are not fully prepared for Year 1. Pupils enjoy taking part in activities beyond the curriculum. Many join clubs such as fencing, handbells or the rock band. They enjoy representing the school in sports. Pupils benefit from visits and cultural events such as hearing a live orchestra or visiting the opera. Leaders use additional funding so that all pupils can take part. These experiences help pupils to be prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils feel proud of their school. Older pupils act as buddies to help children in the early years settle in. Pupils know right from wrong, treat each other kindly and feel safe. Bullying is not tolerated and staff deal with concerns quickly. Pupils attend regularly and leaders support families where attendance needs to improve.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the early years curriculum is strengthened, including for children in the 2-year-old provision, and that staff receive the training they need to deliver the curriculum effectively.
• Leaders should further embed strategies to develop pupils’ handwriting across the school.

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