St Teresa’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Irlam, Manchester, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 10 and 11, 2023. The school is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils, which is evident in the positive feedback from parents and carers who appreciate the warm welcome they receive. Pupils express that their teachers are the best aspect of their school experience, contributing to their happiness and sense of safety. The staff are proactive in addressing any instances of bullying or name-calling, ensuring that pupils feel heard and supported.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including choir, sewing, and karate clubs, which pupils enjoy. Older students take on responsibilities with maturity, helping the school day run smoothly. Residential trips to locations such as Whitby and Wales are highlights for many pupils, enhancing their interpersonal skills and fostering a sense of community. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they strive to meet the high expectations set by school leaders. This positive behavior is evident from early years through to older students, benefiting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The curriculum at St Teresa’s is broad and ambitious, effectively catering for the needs of all pupils. Subject leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that new knowledge is introduced in a logical sequence, starting from early years. This thoughtful approach prepares children well for their future learning. Staff receive ongoing professional development, which equips them to deliver the curriculum effectively. Teachers actively check pupils’ understanding during lessons, addressing misconceptions as they arise. Many pupils can articulate their learning clearly, demonstrating their grasp of the material.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, pupils are not always clear about the key knowledge they need to retain. Leaders have acknowledged this and are implementing strategies to provide more opportunities for pupils to recap their learning. The effectiveness of these strategies is still in the early stages of evaluation. The school is also quick to identify pupils with special educational needs, making necessary adaptations to the curriculum to support their learning. Access to specialist support from external agencies further aids these pupils in achieving well.
Reading is a significant focus for the school, with leaders investing in diverse literature to enhance pupils' understanding of the world. Carefully selected books foster a love of reading, and pupils enjoy listening to their teachers read, which helps them learn new vocabulary. Early years children are surrounded by high-quality texts and are well-prepared to begin phonics instruction. Staff are trained to deliver the phonics curriculum effectively, ensuring that reading materials align with the sounds pupils are learning.
The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, with pupils demonstrating respect for one another. They are knowledgeable about various faiths and cultures, and initiatives like stewardship sessions encourage them to care for their surroundings. Governors are actively involved in supporting and challenging school leaders, contributing to the overall improvement of the school. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, with regular training for staff to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders maintain thorough records and take timely action when concerns arise.
In summary, St Teresa’s Roman Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, a well-structured curriculum, and a commitment to the well-being of its pupils. The school is focused on continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing pupils' retention of knowledge and further developing its curriculum delivery.
