Bury CofE Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils enjoy learning within the school's positive, 'can-do' ethos. They routinely show the school's expectation that they are focused fully in lessons and 'SHINE'.

Starting in the early years, children understand that learning is important. They delight in exploring the engaging activities the school provides. In lessons, pupils concentrate on their studies.

They support each other well and show determination when studying something tricky. Pupils celebrate each other's achievements. They learn the school's curriculum well.

They reach the school's high expectations of their achievements. Pupils are prepared well for secondary education.

Pupils show ...kindness and care for others.

They are polite and use good manners in their interactions. During lunch, pupils dine together pleasantly and tidy up after themselves. On the playground, older pupils model the school's values to younger pupils and demonstrate positive play.

Pupils treat each other with respect. When friends fall out, pupils can positively resolve issues themselves.

By the end of Year 6, pupils are well equipped for life after primary school.

They know how to stay safe at home, in the community and online. They also understand the importance of serving their community. Pupils willingly take up responsibilities at school.

For example, they perform leadership roles capably such as school councillor and house captain.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school's ambitious curriculum is well designed and organised so pupils learn in logical steps. This helps pupils build what they know and understand over time.

The school has ensured that staff are well trained and teach the curriculum effectively. They have strong subject knowledge and know exactly what pupils must learn to achieve what they should. Staff regularly give pupils opportunities to review what they have been taught.

This supports pupils to remember key knowledge.

Staff routinely check what pupils know and understand. When necessary, staff provide timely support to ensure pupils do not fall behind.

The school typically provides effective support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Working with external agencies and parents, the school provides staff with clear guidance about how best to support these pupils. Overall, the school has effective provision to support pupils' needs.

At times, however, staff do not ensure that learning activities are carefully adapted to meet the needs of some pupils with SEND. When this happens, pupils do not learn as well as they could.

Starting in the early years, pupils develop an enjoyment of reading.

Staff ensure pupils regularly read texts that match their abilities and interests. Pupils appreciate the school's well-stocked collection of books. In the early years, children develop their use of language and learn the basics of early reading.

Staff teach pupils to read fluently. Those pupils who find reading tricky receive effective support to become fluent readers.

Children in the early years learn the school's high expectations of their behaviour.

They sustain concentration and listen well to others during class discussions. The school has established clear routines for pupils to follow in lessons and during playtimes. Pupils appreciate the recognition they receive in assembly and when they are awarded 'Star of the Week'.

When unwelcome behaviour occurs, staff follow the behaviour policy consistently, and the behaviour stops and typically does not reoccur.

Pupils enjoy school. They attend regularly.

The school provides effective support for pupils who find it hard to maintain regular attendance. As a result, attendance for these pupils is improving.

The school ensures pupils learn about different lifestyles and beliefs found in modern society.

Pupils show interest in learning how others live their lives. They understand the importance of respecting others' differences. During class discussions, pupils speak about controversial topics with sensitivity.

Pupils have a well-developed understanding of the spiritual side of the human experience.

Pupils are taught how to maintain healthy lifestyles and relationships. They reflect on, and communicate clearly about, their emotional 'zones'.

They also know the importance of healthy eating and physical exercise.

The trust has made substantial positive contributions to the school. Trustees and members of the local governing body work well together to provide the support and challenge needed to ensure that the school provides a high-quality education.

They have an accurate understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the school. Trustees and governors hold leaders to account and ensure they make any necessary improvements.

Staff morale is high.

They value the strong team ethos and enjoy working at the school. Staff appreciate how leaders have high expectations of staff while also supporting them to maintain a reasonable workload.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

What does the school need to do to improve?

(Information for the school and appropriate authority)

• Occasionally, staff do not adapt learning activities well enough to meet the needs of some pupils with SEND. When this happens, these pupils do not learn as well as they could. The school should ensure staff have the guidance that they need to support pupils with SEND to learn well.