Fazakerley Primary School is a vibrant, 2-form entry primary school with a welcoming and inclusive ethos, supporting every child on their educational journey. The school plays an important role in the Fazakerley community; with a significant proportion of pupils who are disadvantaged, as well as a higher-than-average number of pupils with SEND and EHCPs. The school is widely known for its dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its pupils. The school itself is nestled within the local estate, with welcoming grounds and a supportive atmosphere that invites pupils and visitors alike. Our assessor was told that “The staff’s willingness to go above and beyond has a real impact on the community”. Their TEAM code of conduct perfectly encapsulates the school’s commitment to inclusion: ‘Take care, Everyone tries their best, Always tell the truth, and Me and you’. 
The school strives to create a positive learning environment where pupils can be truly themselves and achieve their goals. Their core values of Confidence, Belief, Resilience, and Aspiration are at the heart of everything they do. Senior leadership work closely with learning mentors and the wider team to ensure excellent support is always provided; staff are always visible and approachable for when parents need to speak with them. The pastoral lead works on managing attendance and removing any barriers that might prevent a pupil from attending school. It is this personalised, dedicated approach that results in improving attendance rates and ensuring that pupils are fully engaged in their learning. The school has two experienced SENCos, one for Early Years and Key Stage 1, and another for Key Stage 2, who adopt a “students first” ethos and are always on hand to support staff, pupils, and parents. The school prides itself on knowing their pupils well, and school improvement plans are carefully planned to meet the changing needs of their cohort. Staffing structure is important to ensure that every child receives the support they need, even in the absence of an EHCP. Fazakerley Primary School work with a range of external agencies to ensure extra levels of support for families, with significant investment in consulting with highly qualified professionals.
Leadership plays an important role in ensuring the school includes and provides for every member of its community. The SLT have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and subject leaders are trusted to take ownership of their areas of training. SLT also work with external experts to ensure that the best possible advice and support is on offer. Governors take on areas of responsibility aligned to their expertise and provide essential support. They are keenly aware of the challenges faced by the school and remain informed of all successes.
A strong holistic approach to the curriculum ensures quality learning for all at Fazakerley Primary School. In EYFS, pupils are immersed in a culture of support and care that lays strong foundations for their future. There is a strong emphasis on communication and interaction, including those with English as an Additional Language and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Reading is taught through a rigorous phonics programme, with high-quality texts used to inspire a love of reading from an early stage. Students with additional needs receive tailored support and staff take a proactive approach to their learning, especially for those with EHCPs. Mixed-ability groups ensures there is no ‘glass ceiling’ to learning, and a positive attitude to achievement is present across the school. Regular school assemblies focus on important themes to inform learning, such as celebrating differences. They promote diversity and British values, with pupils taking part in visits to places of worship and welcoming visitors form all walks of life into their school community.
Mental wellbeing is prioritised and openly discussed at Fazakerley Primary School. The learning environments reflect the positive attitudes towards wellbeing, and students are taught about their emotions in an explicit and supportive way. The Roar Rainbow helps pupils express how they are feeling, and they are encouraged to suggest strategies to improve their mood if they are feeling low. Parents speak highly about the transparency and readily available support provided by the school. There are daily opportunities for parents and carers to speak with staff or senior leaders on the day. The approachable atmosphere makes parents feel included and welcomed in the Fazakerley family and appreciate the emphasis on wellbeing for their children. Parents can regularly meet with class teachers and SENCOs to learn about their child’s progress and hear about how their needs are being actively met. Parents feel that their voices are heard when it comes to the support their children receive. Fazakerley reinforces to parents that the school is a community, and they are a vital part of it. Indeed, the school maintains close connections with the local church and library, as well as local and wider community groups who deliver assemblies and workshops for students. Inclusion is part of every aspect of Fazakerley life, where everyone is welcomed and no one is left behind.