St Peter’s Catholic Primary School in Prenton, Merseyside, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 7 and 8, 2022. The school has shown a commitment to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for its pupils, which is reflected in the positive feedback from students, parents, and carers. Many families have chosen to enroll their children at St Peter’s after experiencing difficulties in other schools, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school community is welcoming, and pupils express that they feel safe and happy in their learning environment.
The behavior and attitudes of the pupils are commendable, with clear expectations set by the school leaders. Children in the early years adapt quickly to school routines, demonstrating attentiveness and respect towards adults and peers. Older students also exhibit a strong desire to meet the expectations of their teachers, contributing to a positive atmosphere where school rules are followed, and good behavior is the norm. Pupils enjoy engaging in team sports and games during playtime and have confidence in the staff's ability to address any instances of bullying effectively.
The leadership team at St Peter’s has made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum, raising expectations for pupil achievement across various subjects. The curriculum is well-designed and caters to the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs. In many subjects, leaders have clearly defined the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught. This structured approach allows pupils to build their knowledge progressively and securely.
However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum lacks clarity in organization. In these areas, subject leaders have not sufficiently outlined the key knowledge that pupils need to learn, which can lead to confusion among teachers regarding content delivery. This gap can hinder the effectiveness of teaching and the retention of knowledge by pupils. Addressing this issue will be crucial for ensuring that all subjects provide a coherent learning experience.
The early years curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, enabling children to develop their language skills through exposure to rich vocabulary. The introduction of a new phonics program has been successful, with staff trained to deliver it effectively. This program ensures that children in the early years and key stage one develop strong phonics knowledge, which is essential for reading unfamiliar words. The school promotes a high profile for reading, with a well-stocked library and thoughtfully selected books that reflect diverse experiences.
St Peter’s prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored support to ensure they can learn alongside their peers. The leadership team works closely with parents and external experts to identify and address these needs promptly. The school also emphasizes the importance of pupils’ wider development, teaching them about healthy relationships and encouraging community involvement through charitable activities.
Governors play an active role in supporting and challenging the leadership team, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the school. Staff morale is high, with leaders taking steps to support their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety and well-being.
In summary, St Peter’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement in curriculum organization, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, with a focus on high expectations, inclusivity, and the holistic development of students.
