Computing Quality Mark
We are thrilled to announce that our school has successfully achieved the prestigious Computing Quality Mark! This recognition highlights our dedication to providing a high-quality computing curriculum that empowers our pupils to thrive in today’s technology-driven world.
Our robust curriculum aligns with the three key concepts of the Department for Education’s National Computing Curriculum: Digital Literacy, Information Technology and Computer Science. Through a collaborative effort with computing experts from the Knowsley City Learning Centre, our senior leadership team, and dedicated teaching staff, we have developed a comprehensive computing progression map that ensures all pupils receive a deep, engaging and practical computing education.
Our curriculum not only meets national standards but also aligns with our broader school development plans. By integrating technology across subjects, enhancing digital literacy and fostering participation in computing-related extracurricular activities, we are preparing our students for future educational and career opportunities.
We are also committed to continuous improvement, regularly evaluating the impact of our curriculum through feedback from pupils, staff, and stakeholders, ensuring our approach remains relevant and effective. Our partnerships with organisations like the LFC Foundation and Knowsley CLC further enrich our students’ learning experiences, connecting them with real-world insights into the exciting world of computing.
This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and partners. Together, we are providing an outstanding computing education that prepares our students for success in an ever-evolving digital world. We look forward to continuing this journey of excellence and innovation in the years ahead!
Reading Quality Mark
Malvern Primary School Celebrates Third Consecutive Liverpool Reading Quality Mark Gold Award
We are delighted to announce that Malvern Primary School has once again achieved the Liverpool Reading Quality Mark Gold, making this the third consecutive time our school has been recognised for excellence in reading. This accolade reflects the passion, dedication and innovative approaches of our entire school community in fostering a love of reading.
A Model of Excellence in Leadership
The assessment report highlighted the outstanding commitment of our school leadership, stating, “The Reading Advocate and Headteacher are clearly committed to leading and supporting whole-school development of reading.” Reading is woven into the fabric of Malvern, with reading for pleasure prioritised in the 2024-2025 School Development Plan.
Governors and parents were commended for their unwavering support, with the report noting, “The Governing body see reading for pleasure as a high priority, and parents cite the impact it has had on their children’s achievements and life choices as they have grown beyond school.”
The Reading Advocate’s tireless efforts were singled out for special praise: “The Reading Advocate is successfully driving and motivating whole-school involvement.”
Transforming Attitudes and Outcomes
The school’s innovative strategies for engaging readers of all abilities have had a transformative impact. The report observed that “pupils who had been identified as reluctant or less confident readers are now reading more regularly and talking about books.” This progress is underpinned by rigorous data tracking, staff collaboration and a responsive approach to selecting texts that resonate with our pupils.
Malvern’s commitment to fostering a love of reading was encapsulated in the assessors’ observation: “The school’s main aim was to create a positive reading culture around the whole school, with reading as the bedrock to accessing all learning, enjoyment and enrichment across the wider curriculum.”
A Vibrant Reading Culture
The school’s vibrant approach to reading was celebrated for its creativity and inclusivity. The assessors were particularly impressed by the Community Book Club, which has thrived for over 20 years under the leadership of the Reading Advocate. They described this initiative as a “real strength of the school”, bringing together staff, parents and governors to model a shared love of reading.
Malvern’s relocated library, now with access to an outdoor courtyard, was highlighted as a space that fosters independent reading. The report praised this as a “dedication to reading shown by the Reading Advocate and all staff, ensuring this consistently happens.”
Pupil and Staff Engagement
The role of Junior Reading Ambassadors was celebrated for strengthening bonds across year groups and creating additional opportunities for reluctant readers. The report suggested that enhancing their profile further could build on this success. Regular staff training and collaborative lesson studies were commended for embedding “research-backed approaches” and ensuring reading remains central to the curriculum.
Assessors noted the creativity in Malvern’s approach, from calm, organised book nooks in classrooms to the “Reader of the Week” awards, where pupils unwrap a mystery book with excitement. Opportunities for peer recommendations, daily timetabled reading slots and shared reading experiences have ensured that every pupil has the chance to thrive.
Reading as the Golden Thread
The report summarised Malvern’s approach perfectly: “Reading is a golden thread at the heart of learning and for pleasure.” Assessors praised the school for its focus on “quality texts at the heart of learning, with ongoing funding to support this.”
Malvern is immensely proud of this achievement, which recognises the collaborative efforts of our pupils, staff and families. The feedback from the assessors underscores our commitment to ensuring every child experiences the joy and enrichment that reading brings.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on continuous improvement. We aim to further amplify pupil voice in our library spaces, expand the diversity of our reading spine and continue exploring new ways to inspire a love of reading in our community.
Here’s to another year of reading adventures at Malvern!
Wellbeing Award for Schools
We are delighted to share that Malvern Primary School has been awarded the prestigious Wellbeing Award for Schools, a recognition of our school’s ongoing dedication to fostering emotional wellbeing and mental health for pupils, staff and families. This achievement speaks volumes about the culture of kindness, support and resilience that is deeply rooted within our school community.
Throughout the award process, Malvern has been described as “a happy school where everyone is valued and listened to,” a sentiment echoed by staff, pupils, parents, and governors.
Our commitment to wellbeing extends through a clear vision focused on happiness and kindness, which the report highlights as central to Malvern’s success. Parents and students alike emphasised the positive impact of these efforts, with one parent sharing, “School offers a 360-degree approach; it is so much more than education… they harness and cherish each child’s wellbeing.”
Our staff’s wellbeing is equally valued, with policies that include flexible working, dedicated wellbeing days and comprehensive support systems. Staff commented on the positive work environment, noting the “sense of choice and autonomy” that fosters “kindness, connection, and a feeling of being valued.”
Artsmark Gold
We are delighted to announce that Malvern Primary School has been awarded the prestigious Artsmark Gold, a national recognition of our outstanding commitment to embedding the arts at the heart of school life. This accolade celebrates the depth, breadth, and inclusivity of our arts provision, which has been described as both “distinctive and impressive.” The award acknowledges our dedication to ensuring that arts subjects hold a strong presence in the timetabled curriculum, with a “clear sense of progression in discrete arts skills underpinning the pedagogy and planning.” Our approach not only strengthens the artistic skills of our pupils but also forges meaningful connections with wider learning across the curriculum.
At Malvern, the arts are seen as a vital part of every child’s education, and we are proud to offer an “impressive array of clubs, trips, and visiting creative practitioners,” providing pupils with opportunities to experience live theatre, musical performances, and gallery visits. These experiences enrich their learning and help foster a deep appreciation for the creative industries. Moreover, we have placed a strong emphasis on the integration of poetry and drama within English lessons and beyond, ensuring that creative expression is embedded in our students’ academic journey. One of the key elements of our success is our inclusive approach, ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their background, can participate in the rich arts opportunities available. Our assessors were particularly impressed by our efforts to make arts provision accessible, noting that we “have worked hard to ensure that your offer is inclusive by seeking funding from partner organisations”.
Our commitment to ensuring every child has access to high-quality arts education is supported by strong monitoring and support systems, which involve the direct engagement of senior leadership. We have made significant investments in time, money, staffing, and facilities, with plans in place to create new arts spaces and to expand our specialist teaching team. This now includes a specialist dance teacher to work alongside our music specialist, enhancing the depth and quality of our provision. Our use of technology and innovation is also worth celebrating. We have equipped our school with professional studio software, allowing us to record pupils’ music-making and create music videos—a unique opportunity for our young musicians to experience the world of professional production.
An exciting partnership with the Shakespeare North Playhouse has brought additional opportunities for our staff to receive ongoing training in drama, enabling them to use creative strategies to enrich classroom learning. The enthusiasm of our staff is evident in their significant contributions to expanding our clubs and the performance opportunities we offer. As one of the assessors noted, “The children enjoy a rich arts diet” and have “developed their performance and showcasing opportunities very significantly in music, theatre, dance, and the visual arts.” This holistic approach ensures that every child has the chance to explore their creative potential, be it through music, dance, drama, or the visual arts.
We have also been sensitive to the needs of more vulnerable pupils, fostering an atmosphere of pride around arts subjects rather than self-consciousness. For example, we have introduced digital technology to allow pupils to record their singing, removing the pressure of a one-chance live performance and helping them feel more confident about sharing their talents. Our Malvern Arts Awards recognises pupils’ participation in and commitment to the arts, celebrating their achievements through exhibitions, performances, and research into the careers of arts professionals. This raises the profile of the arts across our school community and empowers our children as lifelong learners in the arts.
The Artsmark Gold Award is a true reflection of the dedication and passion of our staff, pupils, and community. It is a celebration of the rich, creative environment we have worked hard to cultivate and our ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity, confidence, and a love of the arts in every child. This achievement is a major milestone in our journey to continue inspiring young minds and providing opportunities for all pupils to engage with the arts in meaningful and transformative ways.
Geography Association Silver Quality Mark
We are thrilled to announce that Malvern Primary School has been awarded the prestigious Geography Association Silver Quality Mark! This award is a reflection of our school’s commitment to delivering an engaging and high-quality geography curriculum. The moderation team commended our efforts, stating they were “delighted to read your evidence for a strong curriculum intent” and highlighting the thoughtful design of our ‘3D’ geography curriculum, which incorporates both substantive and disciplinary knowledge. They praised how we have tailored our curriculum to “make the most of what the locality has to offer,” ensuring that students engage with key geographical concepts while connecting their learning to the world around them.
Our progression map was noted as “detailed and concise,” demonstrating how we structure learning to build on prior knowledge and provide clear outcomes. The moderation team was particularly impressed by the way our curriculum links to core themes such as exploration, settlement, significance, navigation, climate, and fertility. Our Learning Expeditions were also praised for being “very detailed” and carefully sequenced, ensuring that “pupils can build knowledge and skills” when working as geographers at Malvern.
The assessors were excited to see “a good amount of photographic evidence of pupils taking part in fieldwork activities,” such as mapping the school grounds, creating bar graphs to record pond life, and sketch maps of Martin Mere and Albert Dock. This hands-on approach was supported by a range of resources that helped pupils develop their map skills and location knowledge across different year groups. The moderation team commented on the breadth of our geography coverage, with pupils exploring places such as the UK, Greece, USA, Brazil, Mexico, Egypt, Australia, the Arctic, and Antarctica.
The award also recognises the role geography plays in personal development at Malvern. The moderation team were particularly impressed by initiatives such as the Pen Pal Club, which allows pupils to “explore different experiences and points of view” with peers from other parts of Liverpool and Europe. They were impressed by the work of our Green Group, who encourage our community to consider “how people can protect the environment” through activities like Community Clean-up events and Green Careers Week.
Our subject champion was highly praised for her “proactive” approach to supporting staff, providing 1:1 development and leading CPD. Her participation in Knowsley Collaborative Geography Lead Teacher meetings ensures that our school stays at the forefront of best practice in geography education. The moderation team also noted the effectiveness of our monitoring schedule, which includes pupil voice, displays, book looks, and lesson studies to build a comprehensive picture of the quality of teaching and learning in geography.
We are extremely proud of this achievement and of our commitment to delivering an inspiring and well-rounded geography curriculum. We look forward to continuing to help our pupils explore and understand the world around them in ever more meaningful ways!
School Games Platinum Mark Award
We are delighted to announce that Malvern Primary School has achieved the prestigious School Games Platinum Mark Award for the 2023/24 academic year. This honor reflects our continued commitment to the development of sport, physical education and competition, both within our school and throughout the wider community.
The School Games Mark, launched in 2012 and facilitated by the Youth Sport Trust, is a Government-led award scheme designed to recognise schools that excel in promoting competitive sport and physical activity. To achieve the Platinum Mark, a school must demonstrate exceptional long-term dedication to sport, consistently maintaining the highest standards over several years.
Our sporting achievements this year have been particularly outstanding, with the following highlights:
- Year 1 Boys – Merseyside Football Champions
- Year 5/6 Boys – Huyton Football League Winners
- Year 5/6 Boys – Northern National Football Finalists
- Year 1, 2 & 3 Boys – Everton Football Club Finalists
- Knowsley Cross Country – 8 Medalists
- Basketball – Champions
- KSSP Boccia – Finalists
In total, 268 of our students have participated in local inter-school competitions, showcasing their skills, sportsmanship, and commitment. Additionally, we are incredibly proud of the young volunteers, leaders, and officials from our school who played an essential role in making these competitions possible.
Our application for the School Games Platinum Mark required us to meet rigorous criteria in the areas of participation, competition, workforce, and clubs. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our pupils, staff, and the support of our partners, we have successfully met these standards.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the organisations that have supported us throughout the year:
- LFC Foundation
- Knowsley School Sports Partnership (KSSP)
- Everton in the Community
We are proud of this remarkable achievement and look forward to continuing our commitment to sporting excellence as we prepare for our next application in 2025.
Modeshift STARS Accreditation
We are thrilled to announce that Malvern has become Knowsley’s first school to achieve Green Accreditation in the Modeshift STARS scheme. This prestigious recognition reflects our commitment to promoting walking, cycling and other forms of active travel.
In recent years, our school has embraced Knowsley’s road safety and active travel education programme, implementing various initiatives to encourage our students to choose sustainable travel options. Our dedication to the Modeshift scheme has been further demonstrated through exciting initiatives including:
- Biker’s Breakfast: Celebratory events for students who cycle to school.
- Dr Bike MOT Sessions: Providing regular maintenance checks to ensure bikes are safe for travel.
- Bikeability Training: Offering valuable skills and knowledge to our young cyclists.
Additionally, we are proud to be a registered WOW (Walk Once a Week) school, where children can track their daily journeys to school using an interactive tracker, earning badges for sustainable travel.
Councillor Tony Brennan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, commended our efforts: “It’s great to see local schools encouraging their pupils to travel actively to and from school. Walking and cycling can benefit both physical and mental health as well as being better for the environment and local residents. This is a brilliant achievement for Malvern, and I wish them success in achieving Bronze accreditation and more in the future.”
At Malvern Primary, we believe in fostering a healthier, greener and safer environment for our students and community. The Modeshift STARS scheme provides us with a live daily our intent to demonstrate kindness to ourselves, each other and our planet.
Eco-Green Flag Award
We are delighted to announce that Malvern Primary School has been awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award. This recognition underscores our significant commitment to promoting sustainability and fostering environmental stewardship within our school community.
Our Eco-Warriors, also known as the Green Machine, have received commendation for their exemplary efforts. Assessors noted, “It is wonderful to see that students have taken responsibility for recording the minutes of their meetings, reflecting their active role in environmental action, precisely as intended by the Eco-Schools framework.” Furthermore, the report stated, “It was fantastic to read that completing the Environmental Review helped your Eco-Warriors appreciate the steps your school has already taken to increase its sustainability.”
The ambitious projects outlined in the Eco-Warriors’ Action Plan are designed to create immediate positive impacts in our local environment while fostering long-term behavioural changes within our school community. The integration of environmental issues into our educational framework is evident, as highlighted in the report: “The curriculum links provided clearly demonstrate that staff members in your school are willing to go above and beyond to include these important issues in pupils’ learning.”
The Eco-Warriors have effectively engaged the broader school community by disseminating their initiatives through newsletters, social media platforms, and a prominent mural. Their collaborations with external organisations, including Liverpool Hope University, Heart of Glass Project, Birds Can Fly, Neston High School, and the COP Citizens Assembly, exemplify their outstanding commitment to environmental advocacy. The report further noted, “Your school’s most notable accomplishment has been fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among students.”
The Eco-Warriors have consistently sought to make a meaningful impact. Their creativity has been particularly commended, with the report stating, “You have demonstrated creativity in creating a clever and unique Eco-Code!” This Eco-Code, an acrostic poem that spells out GREEN MACHINE, serves as an inspiring message for future Eco-Warriors.
History Association Quality Mark
Malvern Primary School is proudly working towards achieving the prestigious History Association Quality Mark, a national recognition awarded to schools that demonstrate excellence in history education. This award highlights schools that provide a rich and engaging history curriculum, nurturing students’ curiosity about the past while developing their critical thinking and analytical skills. By striving for this mark, Malvern aims to create an inspiring learning environment where students not only gain a deep understanding of historical events but also connect them to the present and future. This achievement would reflect the school’s commitment to educational excellence and benefit the entire school community.
To find out more, visit the Historical association website: Become a Quality Mark School: Primary / Historical Association (history.org.uk)
Elklan Communication Friendly Setting status
Malvern Primary School is proudly working towards achieving the Elklan Communication Friendly Setting status, an esteemed accreditation that recognizes settings committed to fostering effective communication and language development for all children. Elklan focuses on equipping educators with the tools and strategies necessary to create language-rich environments, enabling children to thrive in their social interactions and academic pursuits. By pursuing this status, Malvern aims to enhance its support for every child’s communication skills, ensuring they can express themselves confidently and engage meaningfully with others. This initiative not only reflects the school’s dedication to inclusive education but also promises to enrich the learning experiences of all students, empowering them to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
To find out more, visit Communication Friendly Settings – Primary | Elklan Training Ltd