St Thomas CofE Junior and Infant School in Golborne, Warrington, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education and attendance is high. The headteacher and staff create a welcoming atmosphere, supported by Thelma, the well-being labrador, which contributes to the school's calm ethos. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with concerns, with a strong consensus among students that bullying is not an issue and that behavior is well managed by teachers.
The school offers a broad range of extracurricular activities that enhance the learning experience, including cultural, sporting, and creative pursuits. Pupils participate in gardening, choir, and drama, and school trips provide practical experiences that reinforce classroom learning in subjects like geography, history, and art. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, and by Year 6, students demonstrate progress in reading, writing, and mathematics that surpasses national averages. However, some pupils in Key Stage 1 struggle to master reading fundamentals as quickly as they could.
Leaders have implemented a comprehensive curriculum that meets national standards across all year groups. The sequencing of topics is carefully planned to ensure that pupils build on their knowledge progressively. The teaching strategies for English and mathematics have notably improved standards, particularly in mathematics and writing, with Year 6 pupils performing in the top 20 percent nationally. The mathematics curriculum emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving, while the English program systematically develops essential reading and writing skills.
A consistent teaching approach from Reception to Year 6 is evident, with leaders providing guidance on the implementation of the curriculum. Pupils articulate their learning effectively, aided by a focus on developing subject-specific vocabulary. Engaging 'wow' lessons capture pupils' interest at the start of each unit, and students are encouraged to express what they wish to learn, enhancing their retention of information. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with all staff trained in effective reading instruction, contributing to improved standards. Pupils take pride in their reading achievements, as evidenced by their bronze, silver, and gold reading badges.
Despite the strengths in phonics teaching, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of interventions for pupils who fall behind in reading during Reception and Year 1. Consequently, many pupils do not reach the expected standard in the phonics check by the end of Year 1, leading to extended periods in Year 2 focused on basic reading skills rather than fluency and comprehension.
The school promotes a Christian ethos, fostering positive relationships and respect among pupils. However, there is a need for greater awareness and understanding of diverse cultures and religions to better prepare students for life in modern Britain. Staff are dedicated and feel supported by leadership, contributing to a positive school culture.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with clear systems ensuring the safety of pupils and staff. All staff are trained to recognize and address safeguarding concerns, and there is a proactive approach to ensuring pupil safety, including monitoring attendance.
To improve, the school must enhance its phonics teaching to ensure all pupils can keep pace with the curriculum and develop a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and religions. This will better equip pupils for their future in a multicultural society.
