St Francis de Sales Catholic Junior School in Liverpool has been recognized for its outstanding performance in various aspects of education. The recent inspection conducted on November 16 and 17, 2021, confirmed the school's overall effectiveness as outstanding, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience for its pupils. The school has maintained this high standard since its previous inspection in 2007.
Pupils at St Francis de Sales are described as happy and proud to attend the school, thriving in a safe and nurturing environment. They consistently achieve exceptional results and embody the school’s motto, Shall not fail. The mutual respect and kindness between staff and pupils create a positive atmosphere that is evident throughout the school. The displays of pupils' work in classrooms and corridors enhance the learning environment and bring the curriculum to life.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, with reports indicating that misbehaviour is rare and does not disrupt learning. Pupils feel confident that any instances of bullying are dealt with swiftly and effectively by staff, contributing to a supportive school culture. The leadership team, including governors, demonstrates high ambition for all pupils, ensuring they benefit from a broad and exciting curriculum complemented by a variety of extracurricular activities. By the end of Year 6, pupils are exceptionally well-prepared for their transition to secondary education.
The curriculum at St Francis de Sales is well-structured, balanced, and engaging. Leaders have broken down the necessary knowledge into manageable steps, allowing teachers to plan lessons that challenge pupils of all abilities. Reading is prioritized, with staff trained to support pupils in developing essential phonics skills. The reading curriculum is designed to foster fluency, expression, and confidence, enabling pupils to select and share books they have contributed to.
Teachers at the school are well-trained and possess a comprehensive understanding of their subjects. They employ diverse strategies to engage pupils and stimulate critical thinking. Regular assessments help track pupil progress, and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers. This inclusive approach allows all pupils to make excellent progress across all subjects.
Beyond academics, the school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to explore and develop their talents. All pupils learn to play a musical instrument, and many opt to learn a second one. The school organizes residential visits for each year group, and older pupils have the chance to participate in international trips, including skiing holidays. Extracurricular activities, such as after-school clubs, are gradually being reintroduced following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pupils demonstrate tolerance and support for one another, taking pride in their work and actively participating in lessons. They exhibit resilience and maintain positive attitudes towards learning, adopting a growth mindset that encourages them to view challenges as opportunities for growth. The curriculum promotes understanding of equality and diversity, with pupils studying major world religions and British values. They engage in charitable activities, including supporting local food banks.
The school leadership is dedicated to raising pupils' aspirations, exemplified by initiatives like a recent careers week aimed at broadening their understanding of various professions. Feedback from parents and staff is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the supportive environment fostered by school leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Overall, St Francis de Sales Catholic Junior School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and enriching environment for its pupils.
