St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School in Lydiate, Liverpool, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils express enjoyment in their learning environment. They feel happy and safe, which is a testament to the effective leadership and high expectations set by the staff regarding behavior and academic performance. Pupils demonstrate respect towards adults and peers, settle quickly into their work, and exhibit positive attitudes towards learning. The school environment is calm and orderly, with effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying, ensuring that pupils trust the staff to maintain their safety.
The school offers a broad range of opportunities that contribute to the personal development of its pupils. The extensive school grounds are utilized effectively, allowing pupils to engage in gardening activities where they grow flowers, fruits, and vegetables. After-school activities, including sports clubs and choir, have resumed, much to the delight of the students. Older pupils take pride in their roles within the pupil leadership team and as buddies for younger students, showcasing their commitment to community and charity work.
The curriculum at St Gregory’s is ambitious and tailored to meet the needs of its pupils. It is based on the national curriculum while reflecting the local context. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a strong focus on phonics in the early years. Staff are well-trained and deliver the phonics program effectively, ensuring that pupils become confident readers. The school fosters a love of reading through the sharing of high-quality texts, and classrooms are equipped with attractive reading areas that encourage independent reading.
While the curriculum is well-structured in most subjects, there are a few areas where the plans could be more precise in identifying key knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn. This has resulted in some pupils being less able to build on their existing knowledge in these subjects. However, the school has effective processes in place to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the curriculum and achieve well.
The school is recognized as a calm and happy place where learning is uninterrupted. Staff express pride in their work and feel appreciated by school leaders, who ensure that their workload remains manageable. Initiatives to boost staff morale, such as special treats, contribute to a positive working environment. The school provides a variety of enriching experiences, including educational trips and extracurricular clubs, and has a strong record of success in local sports competitions. Pupils learn about diverse cultures and religions, fostering an appreciation for diversity and respect for all.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Gregory’s are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff regarding pupil safety. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, and the school maintains thorough records. Pupils are educated on safety, including internet safety, which empowers them to keep themselves safe.
Overall, St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a supportive environment that promotes both academic and personal growth. The school is committed to refining its curriculum to ensure all pupils can build on their knowledge effectively, thereby enhancing their learning experience.
