School criticised over pupil-safety failings

ST John's Primary School, Failsworth

A FAILSWORTH primary school has been rated as inadequate because of "systematic failings" in how it keeps pupils safe.

But St John's CE Primary says that action has already been taken following a visit by Ofsted inspectors in March who praised good teaching and the academic progress made by pupils.

The education watchdog said the leaders running the school had successfully amalgamated the former St John's infant and junior schools in 2014.

It found that pupils felt safe but it said: "Staff do not have a secure knowledge and understanding of statutory safeguarding issues nor the capacity to apply the training they have received if a safeguarding issue were to arise."

Ofsted found that the school's safeguarding policy was not up to date at the start of the inspection.

The report added: "Leaders do not take alleged bullying incidents seriously. They do not keep any records of bullying incidents or allegations."

Pupils' preparation for life in modern Britain and their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development was restricted by limited opportunities to explore differences between people, said the inspectors.

They also found that leaders did not monitor the attendance of disadvantaged pupils or those with special educational needs and disabilities.

But teaching, learning and pupils' outcomes were judged to be good.

The Ofsted report said: "Children get off to a strong start in the early years and make good progress from their starting points.

"Teachers are knowledgeable and committed.

"They support pupils effectively and track the progress that they make. Pupils make good progress in Years 1 to 6.

"Relationships between staff and pupils are very positive. Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school.

"Pupils are proud of their school. They participate in a wide range of activities which have a positive effect on their personal development."

Chairman of governors Brian Hobin said: "Whilst acknowledging the inspection findings, the school team should be congratulated for its dedication and hard work in maintaining good standards of teaching and learning.

"Plans have already been implemented in response to those aspects highlighted in the report.

St John's is receiving guidance from the local educational authority and other partners enabling us to secure the high standards that both we as a school, and our parents, have come to expect.

"There is a common determination to drive the school forward and our main consideration has, and always will be, to provide the very best education possible for the children."