St Mary’s CofE Primary School in Deane, Bolton, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its recent inspection. The school provides an exemplary quality of education, fostering both social and academic growth among its pupils, including those in the provision for two-year-olds. The welcoming environment ensures that all students, including those who join mid-year or in different year groups, feel supported and valued.
The school demonstrates high ambition for all its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambition is met with a curriculum that challenges students, leading to exceptional achievements across various subjects. The behavior expectations are set high, and pupils consistently meet these standards, displaying kindness and good manners. The supportive atmosphere allows students to express any concerns, contributing to their overall happiness and sense of security.
St Mary’s excels in promoting the wider development of its pupils, offering a broad range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, trips, and residential experiences. These opportunities help students develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility, as they participate in initiatives such as being well-being ambassadors or members of the school council. The school encourages pupils to engage with the local community and take pride in their charitable contributions.
The leadership team, including governors and staff, is dedicated to providing the best possible start in life for all pupils. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of all students, ensuring that knowledge, skills, and vocabulary are well-defined and sequenced. Teachers receive extensive subject-specific training, equipping them to deliver the national curriculum effectively. Subject leaders monitor their areas diligently to maintain high standards.
In the classroom, teachers present new concepts clearly and utilize effective assessment techniques to gauge understanding and address misconceptions promptly. This approach allows pupils to build on their existing knowledge, resulting in a deep understanding of their current and past learning. The school places a strong emphasis on developing confident and fluent readers, with a focus on phonics instruction in the early years. Staff are skilled in creating engaging learning experiences that foster a love for reading.
Pupils are motivated and work diligently to achieve their best, collaborating well with peers in a calm and orderly classroom environment. Attendance has improved significantly, with fewer pupils absent for extended periods. The school quickly identifies the needs of pupils with SEND and makes necessary adaptations to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their classmates. Those with more complex needs benefit from a tailored curriculum designed to meet their specific requirements.
Students express aspirations for their futures, discussing careers such as doctors, vets, and teachers. The curriculum includes lessons on money management and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and the school provides timely support to vulnerable families.
Staff members feel valued and enjoy their roles, knowing they will receive the necessary support to perform effectively. Governors leverage their knowledge of the school to provide both support and challenge in all areas of its operations. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was last deemed outstanding, confirming its continued excellence in education.
