St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Radcliffe has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 7 and 8, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils enjoy their learning and are motivated to meet the high expectations set by their leaders regarding behavior and academic achievement. Pupils, including those in the early years, demonstrate commendable conduct and express that staff genuinely care for their well-being. They have benefited from initiatives such as workshops focused on friendship, contributing to a culture of kindness and respect among students. The school effectively addresses bullying, ensuring a safe environment for all.
The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to achieve well. Their efforts have resulted in most subjects being taught effectively, allowing pupils to build their knowledge over time. The early years curriculum is well-structured, preparing children adequately for the transition to key stage one. Pupils are encouraged to participate in various after-school activities that promote their physical and mental well-being, with many representing the school in inter-school sports, including those with special educational needs.
Leaders and staff foster an environment where pupils can develop leadership skills through roles such as play leaders and school council representatives. The reading ambassadors play a vital role in supporting younger pupils, enhancing their reading skills. The curriculum is generally effective, with teachers employing engaging methods to deliver lessons. However, there are some subjects where teachers may lack confidence in their subject knowledge, which can impact pupil achievement in those areas.
Teachers are adept at identifying gaps in pupils’ understanding and addressing misconceptions. They utilize assessment information to adapt their teaching strategies, although some teachers could improve their use of assessment to check pupils' grasp of subject-specific vocabulary, which is essential for deeper learning. Reading is prioritized, with a well-structured phonics program in place from the early years. Staff provide support for pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring that most pupils read confidently and fluently by the end of key stage two.
The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. Pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for their contributions to the school and community, such as stickers and certificates. They engage in various sports and cultural events, celebrating diversity and promoting mental health and well-being. The school’s social worker is available for pupils to discuss their feelings, providing a supportive resource.
Governors are actively involved in the school, holding leaders accountable for the quality of education. Staff express pride in working at the school and feel supported by the leadership team, particularly regarding workload considerations. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with clear procedures in place to protect pupils. Staff are well-trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils receive timely support when needed.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils struggle with subject-specific vocabulary, which can hinder their understanding of topics. Additionally, ensuring that all teachers possess secure subject knowledge is essential for maximizing pupil learning. Overall, St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils.
