St Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School in Littleborough has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 24 and 25, 2021. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and eager to attend. Staff members greet students warmly each morning, fostering a sense of belonging akin to a family. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, which contributes to their positive behavior and focus during lessons. As a result, pupils achieve well academically.
During playtime, pupils engage in various activities that promote physical health, such as climbing on the trim trail and playing ball games. The school has established a culture of good behavior, with well-trained staff guiding pupils in making appropriate choices during play. Pupils appreciate the support they receive from teachers, particularly in addressing behavioral incidents, including bullying.
The school encourages pupils to participate in charitable activities, supporting local causes like food banks. Pupils take on responsibilities, particularly those involved in the GIFT team, which emphasizes the importance of community and faith. The leadership team has ensured that all pupils benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum. While some subjects have well-established curriculum plans, others are still in the process of being refined and fully implemented.
In the early years, the curriculum is ambitious and designed to build essential knowledge for young learners. Children in these classes exhibit high motivation and exceptional behavior, which is maintained throughout the school. Phonics instruction begins in the Reception Year, with a well-structured program that supports reading development. Pupils have access to a well-stocked library, fostering a love for reading and enhancing their knowledge across subjects.
Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding in all subjects, allowing them to build on prior knowledge effectively. Leaders ensure that staff are trained to identify and support pupils with special educational needs, enabling these students to access a curriculum tailored to their needs. The school also prioritizes pupils' wider development, rooted in its Catholic ethos, promoting an understanding of diversity and contributions from various cultures.
Pupils enjoy a variety of after-school clubs and have benefited from experiences such as residential trips that build confidence and resilience. Staff members feel supported and valued, with leaders focusing on their well-being and professional development. Governors bring diverse expertise to their roles, providing informed support and challenge to school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary's are effective, with well-trained leaders ensuring that staff are equipped to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school collaborates closely with families and external agencies to maintain a safe environment for all pupils. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including technology use.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that recently revised curriculum plans are fully implemented, allowing pupils to build knowledge consistently across all subjects. This will enhance their learning experience as they progress through the school. Overall, St Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
