St Philip’s Catholic Primary School in Stockport has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28 and 29, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils enjoy attending and strive to embody the values of respect, rejoice, and resilience. Strong relationships between adults and pupils contribute to a sense of safety and well-being, with pupils expressing confidence that any instances of bullying are addressed promptly by staff. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as being value ambassadors, and offers a variety of engaging activities during break times and after school, enhancing the overall school experience.
The curriculum at St Philip’s is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils. Enrichment activities, including trips to museums and visits from guest speakers, enrich the learning experience. The early years program effectively focuses on developing reading, language, and communication skills, setting a solid foundation for future learning. Overall, pupils achieve well, with a clear progression in most subjects from early years to Year 6. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the knowledge pupils are expected to learn is clearly defined in some subjects. This lack of clarity can lead to uncertainty among teachers regarding how to build on prior knowledge effectively.
Teachers generally provide clear explanations of concepts and revisit earlier learning to reinforce understanding. In subjects like mathematics, pupils demonstrate their ability to apply knowledge to problem-solving tasks. However, this approach is not consistently applied across all subjects, leading to some pupils struggling to recall earlier learning due to insufficient opportunities for review and consolidation. This inconsistency can hinder their progress through the curriculum.
Reading is a priority at St Philip’s, with leaders investing in new books and enhancing the school library. Pupils express a love for reading and engage enthusiastically with their favorite authors. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to learn essential sounds quickly. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance to catch up. In key stage two, pupils build on their phonics knowledge and develop comprehension skills, allowing them to tackle increasingly complex texts.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive effective support, with teachers quickly identifying additional needs and collaborating with external partners to provide tailored assistance. The school promotes personal development, with pupils demonstrating a strong understanding of diversity and respect for others. Good behavior is evident throughout the school, allowing for a conducive learning environment.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s operations, holding leaders accountable and ensuring that statutory duties are met. Staff report feeling supported by leaders, who are mindful of their workload and prioritize well-being initiatives. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained to respond to any concerns regarding pupil welfare. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety, including online safety.
To improve further, the school needs to clarify the specific knowledge that pupils should learn in certain subjects and ensure that opportunities for revisiting earlier learning are provided consistently. This will help enhance pupils' retention of subject-specific knowledge and skills, ultimately supporting their overall progress. The school has made significant strides since its last inspection in January 2017, and with continued focus on these areas, it can further enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
