St Peter and St Paul Catholic Primary School in Haresfinch, St Helens, has been evaluated positively in its recent inspection, receiving a 'Good' rating across all key areas including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and happy, supported by strong relationships with staff. The school’s mission to 'love, aspire and serve' is evident in the positive attitudes of the pupils, who are ambitious and strive to succeed, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils demonstrate respectful behaviour towards each other and adults, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning. They take pride in their work and are encouraged to participate in democratic processes within the school, such as applying for roles like school councillors and librarians. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, which help nurture pupils' talents and contribute to their overall development.
The school has made significant strides in improving the curriculum, ensuring that it is ambitious and coherent. Staff have clarity on the essential learning objectives, particularly in subjects like mathematics and early reading. However, there are areas that require further attention. The approach to writing in Years 3 to 6 lacks the specificity needed to help pupils develop a fluid writing style. This gap can hinder their ability to focus on content and organization, as they may become overly concerned with the mechanics of writing.
While the phonics programme is delivered effectively, the reading curriculum beyond phonics does not clearly outline the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire, which can delay their progress in becoming confident readers. The school recognizes the importance of addressing these issues to ensure that all pupils can build on their prior learning effectively.
The school prioritizes attendance and works closely with families to encourage regular school attendance. The early years provision is well-structured, allowing children to develop essential communication and listening skills from the outset. Pupils are taught to appreciate diversity and engage in community service, which prepares them for life in modern Britain.
Staff feel valued and supported, and they are committed to the school’s improvement journey. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and holding leaders accountable for the quality of education provided. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized.
In summary, St Peter and St Paul Catholic Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in writing and reading curriculum clarity, the school is on a positive trajectory, supported by dedicated staff and a committed governing body. The school’s focus on building strong relationships, promoting a love of learning, and preparing pupils for future challenges is commendable.