St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School, located in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 14 and 15, 2021. The school fosters a welcoming and supportive community where pupils feel happy and safe. Students report that they can easily make friends and trust the staff to address any concerns, including instances of bullying, which are rare and dealt with promptly. The positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a conducive learning environment where high expectations are set, and pupils respond well by demonstrating good behavior and a willingness to work hard.
The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum that aligns with the national curriculum while being tailored to the needs of its pupils. This effective curriculum planning allows students to make connections across subjects, enhancing their understanding and enriching their educational experience. Subject leaders collaborate closely with early years staff to ensure that the curriculum in Nursery and Reception prepares pupils adequately for Year 1. A strong emphasis is placed on communication and language development in the early years, resulting in attentive and engaged learners.
Reading is a priority at St Wilfrid’s, with older pupils displaying a broad knowledge of various authors and showing enthusiasm for the books read to them. Daily phonics lessons begin in Reception, and staff ensure that reading materials are appropriately leveled, fostering confidence in reading. By the end of Year 2, most pupils can read accurately and fluently, although there are some inconsistencies in phonics instruction due to varying levels of staff training on the new phonics program.
The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, allowing all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to achieve success. Regular opportunities for revisiting previous learning help reinforce new concepts, and teachers effectively use a variety of resources to explain ideas clearly. Pupils are encouraged to articulate their thought processes using mathematical vocabulary, which enhances their understanding.
Pupils express enthusiasm for their work across the curriculum, particularly in subjects like history, where they can recall significant dates and events. However, in a few subjects, the school has not fully defined the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire, which limits the ability to track learning progress effectively.
The school’s special educational needs coordinator provides valuable guidance to teachers on adapting the curriculum for pupils with SEND, and there is a focus on supporting their emotional and mental health needs. The school environment is calm and productive, with minimal disruption to learning.
St Wilfrid’s offers a range of enrichment opportunities, including residential visits and various clubs, promoting a well-rounded education. Pupils learn about different religions and the importance of respect for all types of families. Staff members take pride in their work and feel supported by leaders who prioritize their well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with regular training for staff to identify potential risks. Strong links with local agencies ensure that vulnerable pupils and families receive necessary support. The school has improved its systems for managing pupil absence, resulting in better attendance for specific groups.
To enhance its performance, the school should ensure that all staff teaching early reading receive adequate training for the phonics program to provide a consistent approach. Additionally, leaders need to clarify the key knowledge that pupils should learn in certain subjects to improve tracking of their learning outcomes. Overall, St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future improvements.
