St Theresa's Catholic Primary School in St Helens, Merseyside, was inspected on 30 November and 1 December 2021, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a long-standing reputation, having been previously rated outstanding 14 years ago. The recent inspection reflects the current educational framework and acknowledges changes that may have occurred since the last evaluation.
Pupils at St Theresa's thrive in a supportive and friendly environment where kindness and respect are emphasized. They embody the school's mission to excel in small tasks, fostering a harmonious atmosphere for both work and play. Behaviour is commendable, with early years children learning essential social skills such as sharing and taking turns. The school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
The school encourages pupils to explore their diverse talents and interests, providing opportunities for performances, sports competitions, and music lessons. Community involvement is also a priority, with pupils actively participating in charitable initiatives and events promoting equality and mental health awareness. The curriculum is engaging, and teachers maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, utilizing frequent quizzes to reinforce learning.
Leaders have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those in early years. Subject leaders are passionate and knowledgeable, creating clear curriculum plans that outline essential knowledge for pupils. While established subjects like mathematics and English are well-delivered, some newer curriculum plans have only recently been implemented, and their effectiveness in enhancing pupil achievement is still being assessed.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with early years children enjoying songs, rhymes, and stories, while older pupils engage with class novels. Phonics instruction is effective, with targeted support for those who struggle, ensuring that all pupils can catch up quickly. The school environment is calm and orderly, promoting regular attendance and effective behaviour management, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Leaders are proactive in identifying additional needs, especially those that may have been overlooked during the COVID-19 pandemic. They collaborate with external professionals to ensure thorough assessments and appropriate support for pupils with special educational needs, enabling them to access the curriculum alongside their peers.
Pupils demonstrate a strong sense of social responsibility, advocating for equality and supporting peers who may be treated differently. They engage in various extracurricular activities, showcasing their talents in local galleries and festivals. Staff feel valued and supported by school leaders, who listen to their ideas and provide necessary training.
Governors fulfill their responsibilities diligently, offering both support and challenge to school leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training to ensure they understand their roles in protecting pupils. Concerns are addressed promptly, and the school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for families.
Overall, while St Theresa's Catholic Primary School has maintained a good standard of education, there is a need for ongoing monitoring of the newer curriculum plans to ensure they effectively enhance pupil learning and achievement across all subjects. The school continues to foster a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially.
