St Theresa's Catholic Primary School, located in Crossgates, Leeds, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2022. The school is known for its welcoming environment and strong leadership, with staff who are attentive to the needs of their pupils. The school emphasizes the importance of its Christian values of faith, hope, and love, which are integral to the community and the educational experience. Pupils feel supported and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and safety within the school.
Students enjoy their time at school, forming positive relationships with their peers and staff. They report that bullying is infrequent and that they have trusted adults to turn to if issues arise. The school promotes inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are engaged in learning and feel part of the community. Educational trips, such as visits to Whitby Abbey, are well-organized, allowing all students to participate and reflect on their experiences.
Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, feeling included in the school community and appreciating the support provided by teachers. The school hosts events to help parents assist their children with learning at home, particularly in areas like phonics. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and relevant, building knowledge progressively from early years through to Year 6. For instance, pupils in Reception learn about Remembrance Day, while Year 6 students study the connections between the First and Second World Wars.
The school effectively identifies and addresses the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same learning opportunities as their peers. Teachers regularly assess understanding during lessons and provide additional support when necessary. The curriculum is ambitious, and teachers are well-equipped to deliver it effectively, ensuring that learning builds on prior knowledge. In core subjects like English and mathematics, teachers reinforce essential knowledge, enabling pupils to apply their skills confidently.
While the school excels in many areas, there is room for improvement in the assessment of foundation subjects such as geography. Recent revisions to the curriculum in these subjects aim to create meaningful links with other areas of study, but teachers currently lack precise knowledge of pupil retention over the long term. Leaders are aware of this and are developing a new assessment system to enhance the evaluation of learning in these subjects.
Reading instruction is a strong point at St Theresa's, with a new phonics program implemented to support early readers. Staff training ensures that all teachers are equipped to help pupils develop their reading skills effectively. Pupils receive tailored support when needed and are encouraged to practice reading at home, contributing to their overall fluency and accuracy.
Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning, and their behavior is commendable both in lessons and around the school. Teachers create stimulating activities that capture pupils' interest, leading to focused learning environments. The early years setting is particularly inspiring, promoting vocabulary development through hands-on activities.
The school actively promotes understanding of diverse beliefs and cultures, with pupils engaging in learning about various festivals and participating in competitive sports. Governors play an active role in supporting the school, and staff morale is high, reflecting a positive working environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify and address concerns promptly, ensuring the well-being of all pupils. Overall, St Theresa's Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
