St Mary's Catholic High School, located in Tyldesley, Manchester, has been recognized for its effective action in maintaining the standards established during its previous inspection. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with older students actively engaging in mentoring and leading activities for younger pupils. For example, Year 11 students run a boys' choir, while sixth formers direct the whole-school production. This involvement not only nurtures students' talents but also cultivates caring relationships, contributing to a positive school environment where pupils feel comfortable and happy.
The school has raised its expectations for pupil achievement, particularly for disadvantaged students, and provides high-quality pastoral care. Most students perform well across various subjects, demonstrating a positive response to the school's warm strict behavior policy. Pupils adhere to routines diligently and exhibit politeness and friendliness, showing confidence and resilience in their interactions and discussions.
Student leaders take pride in their roles, contributing to the development of active citizenship within the school community. Initiatives led by student committees, such as campaigns to reduce litter, highlight the school's commitment to environmental awareness. Pupils also participate in charitable events, fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and the importance of inclusivity.
The curriculum at St Mary's is broad and ambitious, with a clear focus on essential knowledge that students should acquire. Most subjects allow for the revisiting of key concepts, enabling pupils to build a solid foundation of knowledge over time. Teachers are generally knowledgeable and deliver the curriculum effectively, although there are instances where assessment information could be utilized more effectively to address learning gaps, particularly for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
The school has made strides in identifying additional needs among pupils, leading to earlier interventions and adaptations in learning. However, some students with special educational needs are not achieving their full potential, partly due to inconsistent use of assessment information and attendance issues. Despite this, sixth form students with special educational needs tend to achieve well and progress to suitable post-education pathways.
Improving reading skills has been a priority, with the school implementing strategies to identify and address gaps in reading knowledge. The library serves as a vibrant space for students to engage with reading during lunch breaks. The school is also actively working to enhance attendance rates, recognizing this as a key area for improvement, especially for certain groups of students.
St Mary's offers a well-rounded program for pupils' personal development, covering topics such as healthy relationships and career pathways. Enrichment activities, including theater visits and cooking lessons, contribute to a holistic educational experience. The governing body plays an effective role in supporting school improvement, and staff report high levels of job satisfaction, aided by measures to manage workload and promote well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. While the school has made significant progress, it acknowledges the need to further support attendance and enhance the use of assessment methods to ensure all students achieve their best. Overall, St Mary's Catholic High School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
