Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Wigan has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 30 and 31, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who see themselves as ambassadors for their school. The school’s motto is deeply embedded in the culture, promoting values of equality and diversity. Pupils express a strong belief in acceptance, viewing themselves as unique individuals who are part of a larger community. The welcoming environment is enhanced by friendly staff and the presence of Albie, the school dog, contributing to a positive atmosphere where kindness is prevalent.
Leadership at Sacred Heart is characterized by a commitment to raising aspirations for all pupils, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. The school provides a well-structured program that supports pupils' development, preparing them for life in modern Britain. This approach enriches the curriculum and encourages pupils to aspire to their future goals. A variety of experiences help pupils build character and resilience, and they articulate the importance of the strong relationships they have with staff, who support their emotional well-being.
Pupils take on leadership roles, such as mentoring younger students, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community. The curriculum is designed to be inclusive, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have implemented a thoughtful curriculum that addresses disadvantages and prepares pupils for the next stages of their education. By the end of key stage two, pupils demonstrate a solid foundation of knowledge, ready for secondary school.
While the curriculum is generally well-organized, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers may lack confidence in delivering certain subjects, which can affect the learning experience. In a few instances, the chosen activities do not effectively support the learning of essential knowledge. Additionally, assessment systems in some subjects may not allow for timely identification of pupils' misconceptions, hindering their ability to recall information fluently.
Reading is a priority at Sacred Heart, with leaders providing resources to promote literacy from an early age. The school has invested in high-quality texts, and pupils express a love for reading, recognizing its role in expanding their minds and vocabulary. Staff are well-trained in early reading strategies, ensuring that pupils develop a strong understanding of phonics, which is crucial for their future learning.
The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, creating a culture where staff are vigilant about pupil welfare. They work closely with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils and their families. Staff are trained to recognize online and community risks, ensuring that pupils learn how to stay safe and develop healthy relationships.
Overall, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school community is characterized by high morale among staff, who feel supported in their roles. Governors play an active role in ensuring the quality of education remains high. While the school is performing well, there are opportunities for further development in teaching practices and assessment methods to enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
