Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School in Seaforth, Merseyside, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 18 and 19, 2024. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils enjoy learning and feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Staff members are attentive to the needs of students, ensuring that they feel safe and supported. This inclusive atmosphere allows pupils, including those from diverse backgrounds, to integrate quickly and participate fully in school life. The school has high expectations for all students, and most pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, achieve well across various subjects.
The positive behavior of pupils is evident from the early years, where they learn essential social skills such as listening, sharing, and taking turns. The school promotes values of respect and kindness, which are reflected in the behavior of students during lessons and social interactions. Pupils actively engage in personal development opportunities, participating in a variety of clubs and responsibilities that enhance their skills and confidence. They benefit from interactions with local professionals, which inspires them to aim high in their future endeavors.
The curriculum at Our Lady Star of the Sea is ambitious and tailored to meet the needs of its pupils. It clearly outlines the learning objectives for each subject at different educational stages. In response to a decline in attainment following the COVID-19 pandemic, the school revised its curriculum, leading to improved pupil achievement, particularly in mathematics. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and select activities that facilitate effective learning. They frequently revisit concepts to reinforce understanding and adapt their teaching based on assessments of pupil knowledge.
Reading is a significant focus within the school, with various initiatives encouraging a love for reading among pupils. The school implements a well-structured phonics program, particularly for early years students, helping them develop essential literacy skills. However, there are inconsistencies in the implementation of this program among some staff, which can hinder the progress of a few pupils in becoming fluent readers by the end of key stage two.
The school is proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to engage with the curriculum alongside their peers. The learning environment is calm and orderly, with most pupils remaining focused and engaged during lessons. Staff effectively manage the needs of pupils who may struggle with concentration or following rules.
Despite the school's strengths, attendance has declined since the pandemic, with too many pupils missing valuable learning opportunities. The school is working to strengthen strategies to improve attendance, ensuring that all pupils can fully benefit from the educational experiences provided. The school fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging pupils to embrace diversity and engage in charitable activities, promoting awareness of social responsibilities.
Staff members express pride in their work at the school, noting that their efforts are recognized and valued. The governing body is actively involved in maintaining stability and a focus on educational quality amidst changes in staffing and leadership. Overall, Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for all its pupils.
