Leigh St John’s CofE Primary School is a smaller than average primary school located in Leigh, Greater Manchester. The school has undergone a transition from an infant school to a primary school, successfully implementing this change since 2016. The leadership team, including the headteacher and deputy headteacher, is ambitious and dedicated to fostering an environment where both staff and pupils can thrive. The school’s vision emphasizes the importance of learning today for a brighter tomorrow, which is reflected in the high expectations set for all members of the school community.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment at the school is outstanding. Teachers are enthusiastic and benefit from high-quality professional development, which equips them with the necessary skills to enhance pupils' learning experiences. The curriculum is broad, balanced, and engaging, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys. The teaching of reading is particularly impressive, with pupils demonstrating a deep understanding and appreciation of literature. The school also runs a book club that encourages pupils to share and discuss high-quality texts, further enhancing their reading skills.
Pupils' behavior is exemplary, characterized by politeness and respect towards others. They engage positively in classroom activities and support one another in their learning. The school promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, enabling them to thrive in a supportive environment. The school council provides pupils with a voice, allowing them to express their ideas and contribute to school life actively.
The early years provision is led effectively, with children making excellent progress and being exceptionally well-prepared for their transition to Year 1. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. The pastoral manager plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable pupils and their families, demonstrating the school’s dedication to the welfare of its community.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, and while their progress is improving, further work is needed to ensure their outcomes match those of their peers. The school has implemented strategies to address the historical underperformance of boys in comparison to girls, and there are signs of significant improvement in this area.
The governing body is highly effective, providing both support and challenge to the leadership team. Governors are well-informed about the school’s performance and engage actively with subject leaders to ensure continuous improvement. The school’s strong relationships with parents and the community contribute to a positive learning environment, with parents expressing high levels of satisfaction regarding their children’s education.
Overall, Leigh St John’s CofE Primary School is an outstanding institution that prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils. The school’s commitment to high standards in teaching and learning, combined with its supportive and nurturing environment, ensures that pupils are well-equipped for their future endeavors. The school continues to strive for excellence, focusing on improving outcomes for all pupils, particularly those with additional needs.
