St Simon’s Catholic Primary School in Hazel Grove, Stockport, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on 20 and 21 June 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in May 2018. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
The school fosters a welcoming environment for pupils and their families, with staff greeting them warmly each morning. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the education provided, and pupils report strong relationships with staff, which contributes to their sense of safety and happiness. Leaders set high academic expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and most pupils strive to meet these expectations, resulting in good learning outcomes.
Pupils exhibit positive behaviour in lessons and throughout the school, adhering to the high standards set by leaders. They enjoy social interactions during breaks and report that any instances of bullying are effectively addressed by staff. Year 6 pupils take pride in mentoring younger students, helping them adjust to school life. The curriculum is enriched with various activities, including yoga and outdoor learning, and pupils actively participate in sports competitions.
The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that prepares pupils well for future learning stages. This includes a strong early years curriculum that equips children with essential knowledge for Year 1. In most subjects, leaders have clearly defined the essential knowledge pupils need to learn and the sequence in which it should be taught. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum content is still being refined, which can lead to some teachers being unclear about what to teach and when.
Teachers are generally well-trained and effectively deliver the curriculum, using well-designed activities that enhance pupils' knowledge and skills. They utilize assessment strategies to identify learning gaps and provide necessary support for pupils to catch up. However, there are occasions when pupils are not given enough opportunities to revisit prior learning, which can affect their long-term retention of information.
Reading is emphasized within the curriculum, with staff sharing a diverse range of texts with pupils. The implementation of a new phonics curriculum has been successful, with children starting phonics in Reception and receiving effective instruction. Most pupils are now able to read confidently and fluently by the end of key stage 1.
The school has established effective systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Communication with parents of these pupils is strong, fostering a collaborative approach to their education.
Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, demonstrating respect and understanding for diverse cultures and beliefs. They appreciate the inclusive atmosphere of the school and enjoy taking on responsibilities such as play leaders and class representatives. Early years children adapt well to school routines and develop positive attitudes towards learning, which continue throughout their education.
Staff report that leaders are considerate of their workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment. Governors are actively involved in monitoring the quality of education, ensuring they have an accurate understanding of the school's performance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who promptly address any concerns.
Overall, St Simon’s Catholic Primary School is a supportive and effective educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils while fostering a strong sense of community.
