Holy Family Catholic Primary School and Nursery, located in Cronton, Widnes, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils learn the importance of kindness and respect, which is evident in their interactions with one another. Older students, such as Year 6 prefects, take on leadership roles by assisting younger pupils during lunchtime and organizing games, creating strong bonds within the school community. This sense of belonging contributes to a close-knit and happy atmosphere.
Pupils are encouraged to embody the school’s values of respect, responsibility, and resilience. They appreciate the recognition they receive for their positive behavior, such as ‘you’ve been spotted’ cards and ‘gems’ for their class jar. The school promotes sensible conduct and consideration for others, which is reflected in the pupils' behavior throughout the school.
In the classroom, students strive to meet high expectations, and those in the early years are eager to showcase their work on the ‘wow wall.’ The school supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve their potential. Participation in extracurricular activities, such as gardening and cheerleading clubs, allows pupils to explore new interests and develop their skills.
The school places a strong emphasis on the professional development of its staff, which has led to the creation of an ambitious and well-defined curriculum. The early years program lays a solid foundation for future learning, with careful planning to ensure children are well-prepared for Year 1. Staff are knowledgeable in their subjects and adept at helping pupils connect new information to prior knowledge. However, there are some areas where assessment strategies do not align perfectly with the curriculum's intent, leading to gaps in understanding for a small number of pupils.
Recently, the school has improved its systems for identifying additional needs among pupils, ensuring that those with SEND receive appropriate support. Staff are equipped with the necessary information to adapt their teaching methods, allowing these pupils to thrive. Reading is a significant focus, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the ways staff engage them during storytime. The school’s phonics program is effectively implemented, helping most pupils become confident readers.
The school promotes personal development by encouraging pupils to embrace challenges, such as performing poems in assemblies and participating in outdoor learning experiences. These opportunities foster confidence and resilience among students. The curriculum also prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, emphasizing tolerance and respect for diverse experiences through the ‘inspire aspire’ program.
A calm atmosphere prevails throughout the school, supported by soothing music during lunchtime and strong relationships between staff and pupils. The school collaborates closely with families to promote regular attendance. Governors take pride in the school’s strengths and actively support its continuous improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a sense of community that resembles a family.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. While the school has many strengths, it is essential to address the alignment of assessment strategies with the curriculum to ensure all pupils are learning effectively. Overall, Holy Family Catholic Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a nurturing environment for its pupils.
