A primary school in Bolton ensures its pupils enjoy learning rather than just hitting benchmarks set.

Lostock Primary School has been recognised it does for all children, especially the more able, continuing to challenge them and ensure they reach their potential rather than just the expected grade.

The school has become the 463rd school in the country to be accredited with the National Association for Able Children in Education Challenge Award.

The award is given in recognition of school-wide commitment to providing outstanding provision for more able learners.

To attain the Challenge Award, schools must complete a detailed self-evaluation using the NACE Challenge Framework, submit a portfolio of supporting evidence, and undertake assessment by a NACE associate.

The assessment process includes examination of school data and key documents; lesson observations; and interviews with school leaders, learners, parents and governors.

NACE CEO Rob Lightfoot said: “Lostock Primary School has worked successfully to attain the NACE Challenge Award. It has shown itself to be committed to developing an environment in which all learners are both challenged and supported to be the best they can be.”

NACE’s assessor reported: “All staff at Lostock are driven by the desire to ensure that every child receives the very best education.

"The knowledge that leaders and teachers have of every child is impressive and means that pupils' needs, including those of more able learners, are swiftly identified and effectively addressed.

"Challenge is a key element of every lesson and Lostock's ethos 'Aim High, Together we Fly' permeates the school and is clearly articulated by both children and staff.

"Children understand what challenge is, as well as the concept of 'desirable difficulty' and the importance of developing resilience.

"The curriculum is inspiring and ambitious, providing rich opportunities for the identification and development of abilities and talents both within and beyond the classroom.”

Mr Lightfoot said: “The Challenge Award is presented in recognition of whole-school commitment to and achievement in providing effective challenge and support for all – spanning school leadership, curriculum, teaching and learning, processes for identification and tracking, extracurricular opportunities, strong communication and partnerships, and ongoing evaluation.”

Lostock Primary School will now be part of the international community of Challenge Award-accredited schools which have demonstrated a sustained and effective commitment to meeting the needs of more able learners, and an interest in sharing expertise for the wider benefit of the education community.