St Thomas’ CofE Primary School in Leigh has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 19-20, 2019. The school is characterized by a supportive and nurturing environment where leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils. The Christian ethos of the school is evident in the relationships among pupils and staff, fostering a sense of community and care. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and demonstrate politeness and good manners throughout their daily activities. Parents and carers have a positive perception of the school, often recommending it to others.
In terms of academic performance, pupils are engaged and work diligently in their lessons. Teachers are noted for making learning interesting, which contributes to a positive atmosphere in the classroom. The school has established effective measures to address bullying, ensuring that incidents are rare and resolved promptly when they occur. Pupils also have opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as serving on committees and acting as Value Ambassadors, which enhances their sense of belonging and leadership skills.
The curriculum at St Thomas’ is designed collaboratively by leaders and staff to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is engaging and encourages pupils to explore the world around them from an early age. Disruption in lessons is uncommon, and the school has clear expectations regarding what pupils should learn by the end of each year. Training for teachers supports effective curriculum delivery, resulting in strong academic outcomes in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a structured phonics program starting in Reception. Pupils are provided with books that align with their phonics knowledge, and those who struggle receive additional support to help them catch up. The majority of pupils achieve the expected standard in the Year 1 phonics screening check, demonstrating fluency and comprehension in their reading. The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favorite authors and the variety of books available in the library.
Writing instruction builds on pupils’ understanding of vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation, allowing them to write effectively across different styles and purposes. Teachers assess pupils’ knowledge and understanding in various subjects, although there is room for improvement in consistently checking what pupils know and remember across all subjects. This will help inform future planning and ensure that learning is tailored to pupils’ needs.
Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with a wide range of extracurricular activities available, including sports and creative clubs. Staff organize trips and visits that enhance learning experiences, contributing to a well-rounded education. The governing body plays an active role in supporting the school, holding leaders accountable for maintaining educational quality.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with thorough checks in place to ensure the safety of pupils. Staff are trained to recognize potential risks and understand the procedures to follow if concerns arise. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide timely support for vulnerable pupils and their families, ensuring a safe learning environment.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in how teachers assess pupils’ prior knowledge to inform planning. This will enable pupils to build on what they already know, enhancing their learning experience. Overall, St Thomas’ CofE Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a positive and enriching environment for all its pupils.
