St James’ Catholic High School in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 23 and 24 February 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, often describing the atmosphere as familial. Students demonstrate a strong desire to learn and excel, supported by teachers who are committed to their academic, social, and emotional growth. The school has established high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a respectful and orderly environment where incidents of poor behavior are addressed promptly.
The school promotes a culture of respect and equality, with pupils reporting that bullying is dealt with swiftly and discrimination is not tolerated. A variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and sports, enrich the pupils' experience, allowing them to engage in interests beyond the classroom. The school council and prefects play an active role in school life, contributing to improvements that benefit the entire student body.
Leadership at St James’ is characterized by a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, leading to an increase in the number of pupils opting for the English Baccalaureate subjects. Curriculum leaders have effectively identified key knowledge for pupils to learn, and in many subjects, the curriculum is particularly effective. Teachers employ strategies to help pupils retain knowledge, revisiting content to reinforce learning and addressing any misconceptions.
However, there are areas for improvement. In a few subjects, the curriculum lacks clarity regarding the foundational knowledge necessary for pupils to tackle more complex tasks. This can lead to pupils being overwhelmed with too many ideas too quickly, resulting in gaps in their understanding. To enhance pupil achievement, leaders need to ensure that the curriculum in these subjects is clearly defined and builds knowledge progressively.
Most pupils demonstrate strong reading skills, although some younger students face challenges. The school has implemented a new reading program to support these pupils in catching up. Additionally, the school has effective procedures for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they have access to the curriculum and receive tailored support as their needs evolve.
The personal development curriculum is comprehensive and relevant, with form tutors well-equipped to deliver essential education on personal, social, and health topics. Pupils appreciate the guidance they receive in making informed decisions about their future pathways. Staff express satisfaction with their work environment, noting that leadership considers their workload and well-being in decision-making processes.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders act swiftly to address any concerns, collaborating with parents and external agencies to ensure pupil safety. Pupils receive education on safety risks and how to navigate them, contributing to a well-informed student body.
In summary, St James’ Catholic High School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging environment for its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum development in certain subjects, the overall commitment to pupil welfare, academic achievement, and personal development is evident. The school’s leadership is proactive in addressing challenges and fostering a positive school culture, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
