Leyland Catholic primary school praised for 'positive' start to the day by Ofsted
The school has been praised for its 'positive' start to the day, with inspectors noting that staff greet pupils with a cheerful 'good morning' and a smile, and that pupils feel safe and cared for
A Leyland school is celebrating a glowing inspection report from watchdog Ofsted.
St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, on Slater Lane, prepares youngsters for the step up to secondary school, according to lead inspector Nichola Tomkow.
The inspection report said the 189-pupil school provided children with a “positive” start to the day.
The report said: “ Pupils get off to a positive start at St Anne’s. Staff greet pupils with a cheerful ‘good morning’ and a smile.
“There are key staff on hand to support any pupils who might need emotional support or reassurance to help them enter school. Pupils arrive in class ready for learning. They rightly feel safe and cared for.
“Attendance and punctuality are recognised and celebrated. Pupils want to attend well because they enjoy learning. They learn in calm and purposeful classrooms. Pupils try their best and take pride in their work.”
The inspection team also noted that a “sharp focus” on reading and maths helps prepare pupils for their higher education.
They said: “Pupils talk enthusiastically about their vibrant, well-stocked library where 'books take you to other worlds'. They access high-quality texts. There is something for everyone.”
And added that outdoor plays a big role in ensuring pupils enjoy their experience at the school.
“At breaktimes, pupils play enthusiastically in ‘St Anne’s Park’, where they can read, run, act, climb and shoot hoops,” inspectors reported.
“They value free time together. Relationships are warm, positive and constructive. Leaders and staff deal with any friendship issues or potential bullying swiftly.”
Older pupils were said to provide “excellent” role models to younger children and were encouraged to take on leadership roles.
The report said: “Older pupils are excellent role models to their Reception buddies. They fulfil this responsibility with genuine joy, kindness and positivity.
“These opportunities help them to develop confidence and teamwork and to feel proud to be part of the school community.”
The school also caters to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
The report concludes: “Most pupils reach national expectations by the end of Year 6. They leave ready for the challenges of secondary school.”