Across Lancashire, seven mainstream schools and nurseries received new Ofsted reports in Janaury 2026.
However the educational watchdog has changed the way in which it judges schools, starting with inspections that took place in November last year.
Educational establishments are no longer be judged by whether their provision is ‘inadequate’, ‘requires improvement’, ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’, instead each category is colour coded, starting with red (’Urgent improvement’), followed by orange (’Needs attention’), light green (’Expected standard’), dark green (’Strong standard’), and blue (’Exemplary’).
The following seven Lancashire schools and nurseries are amongst the first to receive these new report cards.
So take a look at how they did below, including their classifications, highlights and areas that require improvement...
1. January Ofsteds in Lancashire
All the mainstream schools & nurseries from across Lancashire with new Ofsted ratings in January | Google Maps
2. Pool House Under 5's Nursery
Report published Jan 12 following an inspection on Nov 11. Two categories rated 'strong standard', four 'expected standard'. Highlights: a very happy place; wide range of opportunities develop children's character; leaders sustain high-quality education for all children. Improvements needed: Implement and embed the setting's plans to improve the curriculum. Previous inspection: Good. | Google Maps
3. Busy Bees Nursery, Bamber Bridge
Report published Jan 12 following an inspection on Nov 13. Two categories rated 'strong standard', four 'expected standard'. Highlights: care practices are highly effective in meeting children's needs; highly inclusive culture; children make progress from their individual starting points. Improvements needed: help staff understand precisely targeted areas for their own development;use self-evaluation more effectively to help all staff contribute to the nursery's key areas for development. Previous inspection: Outstanding. | Google Maps
4. Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Primary School, Blackburn
Report published Jan 12 following an inspection on Nov 11. One category rated 'strong standard', six 'expected standard'. Highlights: leaders swiftly address any barriers that pupils face; SEND support; pupils behave very well. Improvements needed: teaching of writing; governors' understanding of curriculum; ensure pupils understand fundamental British values. Previous inspection: Good. | Google Maps