St John Fisher Catholic High School, located in Wigan, Lancashire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 10 and 11, 2021. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to the personal development of its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff maintain high expectations, ensuring that all students achieve well. The school fosters an environment where respect and appreciation for diversity are paramount, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils are friendly, polite, and courteous. Behavior in lessons is commendable, and pupils feel safe, confident that any instances of bullying are addressed promptly by staff.
Pupils exhibit a positive attitude towards their learning, showing eagerness to deepen their understanding of various subjects. The school offers a range of extra-curricular activities and social events, enhancing the sense of community and providing opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents. For instance, plans for a trip to London in 2022 highlight the school's commitment to enriching the educational experience.
The curriculum at St John Fisher is ambitious and well-structured, allowing all pupils, including those with SEND, to study a broad array of subjects. Leaders encourage students to select courses that align with the English Baccalaureate, promoting a rigorous academic pathway. The school effectively identifies the additional needs of pupils with SEND and ensures that staff are well-trained to support these students, allowing them to benefit from the same high-quality education as their peers.
Subject leaders have developed organized plans for teaching, and most teachers utilize these plans effectively to facilitate learning. They employ questioning and discussions to assess pupils' understanding, although there are instances where some teachers do not ensure that pupils have fully retained what they have learned. This occasionally results in some students not achieving their full potential. Nevertheless, teachers possess strong subject knowledge and provide clear explanations, using assessment strategies to help pupils correct misconceptions.
Reading is a priority at St John Fisher, with staff implementing various strategies to support pupils in becoming confident and fluent readers. The school also emphasizes effective careers education, equipping pupils with essential skills for future employment and further education. Through organized career fairs and curriculum days, students gain insights into potential career paths related to their studies.
The personal development curriculum is well-planned, allowing pupils to engage actively in their learning. Topics such as stress management and online safety are tailored to meet the needs of the students. The well-being of both staff and pupils is a priority for leaders, who implement strategies to support mental health.
Safeguarding measures at the school are effective, with staff dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils. Leaders are proactive in addressing concerns and collaborating with external agencies to provide necessary support. Training for staff is relevant and focused on current safeguarding issues, ensuring that they are well-equipped to recognize and address potential challenges.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that all staff are trained to help pupils retain important knowledge effectively. This will enable students to achieve their highest potential across all subjects. Overall, St John Fisher Catholic High School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
