St Peter’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Rochdale has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 28-29, 2020. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils succeed, fostering a thriving learning community where students excel across various subjects. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and take pride in their uniforms. The school environment is characterized by polite behavior, with older students serving as positive role models for younger peers. Students feel safe and supported by staff, who are committed to addressing any instances of bullying swiftly.
The school offers a range of enriching experiences, including visits to the Halle Orchestra and opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities such as choir and sports. Pupils actively participate in school life, contributing to committees and the school newspaper, which covers topics like healthy eating and internet safety. Parents and caregivers hold the school in high regard, and there is strong engagement with the local community and parish.
The curriculum is well-designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have carefully sequenced the knowledge that pupils are expected to acquire, ensuring that planning builds on prior knowledge. Curriculum plans facilitate the application of knowledge across subjects, and staff are well-equipped to deliver these plans effectively. Collaboration among staff, including sharing expertise with colleagues from other schools, enhances teaching practices.
Assessment information is utilized effectively in most year groups to inform future learning. However, there are instances where some teachers may advance pupils' learning too quickly, particularly in mathematics, which can lead to difficulties in applying new concepts. Despite this, a significant proportion of Year 6 pupils achieved the expected standard in mathematics in 2019.
Disruption in lessons is uncommon, and pupils are motivated to meet the high expectations set by their teachers. This is evident in the quality of their work, such as their understanding of historical chronology and their ability to analyze artefacts from The Stone Age. Pupils with special educational needs receive skilled support, and the Reception class effectively utilizes outdoor learning to stimulate curiosity.
Phonics instruction begins in the Reception Year, with children quickly learning letter sounds and applying this knowledge in various activities. By Year 1, pupils demonstrate confidence and fluency in reading, with many reaching the expected standard in the Year 1 phonics screening check. A culture of reading is promoted throughout the school, with pupils engaging with a variety of texts and sharing their enthusiasm for books with peers.
Pupils' personal development is well-supported, with the school's Christian values playing a significant role in their education. Interactions with leaders from other faiths broaden pupils' understanding of the world. Recent initiatives, such as interviewing parents about their professions, encourage pupils to aspire for their futures.
The governing body is experienced and well-trained, providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. Staff morale is high, and they feel valued within the school community. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, ensuring that all adults in the school are suitable to work with children. Staff receive training on safeguarding procedures, and leaders diligently follow up on any concerns, working collaboratively with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and their families.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that all teachers provide sufficient opportunities for pupils to consolidate their understanding before moving on to new learning. This will help ensure that all pupils can confidently apply their knowledge in various contexts.
