Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School in Rainford, St Helens, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 18 and 19, 2023. The school provides a high-quality education in a small, family-oriented environment where pupils are eager to learn. The staff are friendly and take the time to know the pupils and their families well, fostering a supportive community. The leadership team, including governors and staff, is committed to delivering the best possible education, which is reflected in the well-designed curriculum that engages pupils and promotes achievement across various subjects.
The school environment is calm and nurturing, which is particularly beneficial for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders set high expectations for behavior, and most pupils respond positively, demonstrating politeness and orderliness as they move around the school. The school promotes a culture of care, where pupils look after one another and resolve conflicts quickly. Instances of bullying are addressed promptly, and pupils feel confident in seeking help from staff when needed.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in decision-making through roles such as eco-warriors and school councillors, and they have access to a variety of extracurricular activities that allow them to explore their interests and talents. The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, with clear expectations regarding essential knowledge and skills. However, there are some areas where the order of teaching key vocabulary could be improved, which may hinder some teachers in their lesson planning.
Staff are generally well-equipped to deliver the curriculum confidently, and subject leaders provide necessary support to ensure effective implementation. Teachers assess prior learning before introducing new concepts, which helps pupils connect their existing knowledge to new material. The school has made significant strides in early reading, with children being introduced to stories and poems from the start of their education. However, a few staff members are still developing their expertise in delivering certain aspects of the phonics curriculum.
Pupils, including those with SEND, read books that match their knowledge of sounds and words, and those who struggle receive the support needed to catch up. Older pupils demonstrate fluency and enthusiasm for reading, discussing their favorite authors and genres. The school also emphasizes the importance of being responsible citizens, teaching pupils about environmental awareness and healthy living.
Governors are well-informed and actively support the leadership team, while staff express pride in their work and appreciate the efforts made to promote their well-being. Parents and carers hold the school in high regard and are likely to recommend it to others. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff who are trained to recognize and respond to any concerns regarding pupil welfare.
In summary, while Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to ensure clarity in vocabulary teaching. The school continues to foster a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe, supported, and engaged in their education.
