Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School in Kirkby, Liverpool, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as good during the inspection conducted on December 17-18, 2019. The school demonstrates a strong sense of unity among staff and governors, all of whom are committed to providing pupils with a solid foundation for their future. Leaders and staff have established good relationships with pupils and their families, fostering a supportive community environment. The school maintains a calm atmosphere where teachers have high expectations, and pupils are eager to learn, particularly enjoying their English lessons, which feature engaging reading materials.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, adhering to simple rules that promote a positive learning environment. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, staff address them promptly. The school prioritizes preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom, emphasizing safety and well-being. Pupils feel secure and supported, with numerous opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, such as a recent Shakespeare project that allowed older students to perform at a local theater.
The leadership team has made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum, carefully considering what to teach and when. This thoughtful design has led to strong academic achievement across various subjects, including English and mathematics. A key focus for leaders is ensuring that pupils develop fluent reading skills from an early age. Phonics instruction is delivered effectively, and staff provide additional support to those who struggle with reading, fostering a love for literature among students.
While the mathematics curriculum has been improved, there are occasions, particularly in key stage one, where assessment practices do not sufficiently identify and address gaps in pupils' mathematical understanding. This can hinder some students from building on their prior knowledge effectively. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that assessment information is utilized more effectively in lesson planning to enhance pupils' grasp of foundational mathematical concepts.
The curriculum for early years is well-structured, focusing on communication, literacy, and mathematical skills. Staff effectively model language and engage children in storytelling, which enriches their vocabulary. The learning environments in both Nursery and Reception are well-equipped to support curriculum delivery, promoting physical play and imaginative exploration.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, which remains below the national average. Leaders are actively working with families to improve attendance rates, and their efforts are beginning to yield positive results. The school provides ample opportunities for pupils to explore interests beyond the classroom, with assemblies that promote spiritual and moral values, as well as trips to cultural institutions.
The governing body plays a supportive role in the school's development, regularly monitoring the impact of changes made by leaders. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils are informed about safety, particularly online.
In summary, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The commitment of staff and leaders to continuous improvement is evident, although addressing attendance and refining assessment practices in mathematics will further enhance the educational experience for all students.
