St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School in Ashton-in-Makerfield has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 16 and 17, 2021. The school provides a supportive and safe environment where pupils feel valued and respected. Students report positive relationships with their peers and teachers, contributing to a culture of high expectations regarding behavior and academic achievement. The school emphasizes the importance of good conduct, and pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their learning, exhibiting calmness and politeness throughout the school.
The school has effectively addressed issues of bullying, with pupils stating that such incidents are rare. They feel confident in the support available from staff, who are approachable and responsive to their needs. The return of extracurricular activities post-COVID-19 has been well received, with students engaging in various clubs and leadership roles, including the student council and mentoring programs. This involvement helps foster a sense of community and personal development among pupils.
Leadership at St Edmund Arrowsmith is characterized by a commitment to continuous improvement. Governors and staff work collaboratively to enhance the quality of education. The curriculum is designed to meet the specific needs of pupils, ensuring that all students have access to a broad and balanced education. Most pupils achieve well and are prepared for their future educational and career paths. Leaders have a clear understanding of the curriculum's effectiveness and utilize external support to enhance subject delivery when necessary.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and often present material clearly, providing appropriately challenging activities for pupils. Assessment practices are generally effective, allowing teachers to gauge pupil understanding accurately. However, there are areas where curriculum planning could be improved, particularly in ensuring that all subjects have clearly defined knowledge components. In some instances, the alignment of activities with intended learning outcomes is not as strong, which can hinder pupil progress.
The school has implemented effective strategies to support pupils with reading difficulties, ensuring that those at the early stages of learning to read receive appropriate assistance. This support helps pupils develop their phonics, fluency, and comprehension skills, enabling them to engage confidently with the curriculum. Additionally, the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are carefully identified, and staff are equipped to provide the necessary support.
St Edmund Arrowsmith also prioritizes personal development, offering a well-structured curriculum that addresses themes such as risk, citizenship, health, and relationships. The careers education program is robust, providing pupils with valuable information to make informed decisions about their futures. Staff are dedicated to fostering respect among pupils, who generally exhibit good behavior within the school environment.
The school leadership maintains an open-door policy, ensuring that staff feel supported and valued. The well-being of staff is a priority, with initiatives in place to promote a positive working environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address pupil needs promptly.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subject plans clearly outline the essential knowledge pupils should acquire. Leaders are encouraged to provide ongoing support to teachers to enhance their pedagogical approaches and assessment practices. Overall, St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
