St Cleopas Church of England Junior Mixed and Infant School, located in Liverpool, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good school following an inspection in June 2019. The leadership and management of the school have established a culture of high expectations and morale among staff and pupils, which is reflected in the school’s motto, Live, laugh, learn. Since the last inspection, leaders and governors have taken decisive actions to address previous weaknesses, resulting in significant improvements in teaching quality and pupil outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged students. The school has seen a higher percentage of pupils achieving at least the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics compared to the national average.
Governors play an active role in holding leaders accountable for pupil outcomes and the effective use of pupil premium funding. However, there is a need for them to focus more on the progress of more able pupils, especially in subjects beyond English and mathematics. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure in their environment, which is supported by positive feedback from parents and carers.
Teachers at St Cleopas plan lessons that engage pupils across various subjects, although there are instances where the most able pupils are not sufficiently challenged, leading to slower progress in some areas. Subject leaders contribute significantly to enhancing teachers' subject knowledge, but there is a need for clearer oversight in subjects other than English and mathematics to ensure that all pupils, particularly the most able, are making strong progress.
In the early years, children benefit from good teaching and make strong progress, with most achieving a good level of development by the time they enter Year 1. The school has established effective systems to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, enabling them to make significant progress towards their individual targets. The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain, promoting social, moral, cultural, and spiritual development.
To further improve, the school aims to enhance outcomes for the most able pupils by ensuring that subject leaders develop a stronger understanding of standards in their subjects. This will help guarantee that teaching consistently challenges these pupils across a wider range of subjects. Additionally, governors are encouraged to ask more questions regarding the progress of the most able pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged, to hold leaders accountable for their outcomes in various subjects.
Overall, St Cleopas Church of England Junior Mixed and Infant School has made commendable progress since the last inspection, with effective leadership, good teaching, and a supportive environment contributing to positive pupil outcomes. The school is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their starting points, achieve their full potential. The strong partnerships with parents and the community further enhance the learning experience for pupils, fostering a sense of belonging and support that is vital for their development.
