St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Slough, Berkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from October 8 to 9, 2019. The school fosters a positive and welcoming environment that supports pupil learning and development. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for both learning and behavior, ensuring that they know their pupils well and strive for their best outcomes. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, largely due to the support provided by the staff, which helps them feel happy and engaged in their learning. The school community is characterized by polite and friendly pupils who exhibit positive attitudes towards their education.
During playtimes and lunchtimes, pupils remain active and engaged in various physical activities and games, often playing well together. The dining hall atmosphere is lively, with pupils happily chatting with friends. The school promotes respect for diversity, teaching pupils to celebrate differences among individuals. Feedback from pupils during the inspection indicated that bullying is rare, and they feel confident that any incidents are taken seriously and addressed promptly by adults.
The school is actively developing a challenging curriculum and has set ambitious goals for its pupils. Leaders have carefully planned the essential knowledge and skills that pupils are expected to learn, and this planning is effectively implemented in most subjects. Teachers receive training to deliver the curriculum effectively, and the special educational needs coordinator ensures that staff are equipped to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. As a result, pupils, including those with additional needs and those who are disadvantaged, perform well across the curriculum.
Reading is a particular strength at St Mary’s, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and following a well-structured phonics program. Early years pupils receive a solid foundation in phonics, actively participating in their learning. Those needing extra support in reading are provided with effective assistance, enabling them to catch up and develop essential reading skills. The school has cultivated a culture of enthusiastic and confident readers, with initiatives like reading passports encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of literature.
In mathematics, teachers plan challenging lessons that build on pupils' existing knowledge, using practical resources to enhance understanding. This approach is mirrored in art, where pupils progressively develop complex artistic techniques. The school enriches pupils' experiences through visits to art galleries, further enhancing their learning.
However, some subjects, including science, history, and geography, require further development. Pupils' understanding of subject-specific concepts and methods in these areas is not as robust. Leaders have initiated improvements in these subjects to ensure that essential skills are taught effectively.
The curriculum also promotes broader pupil development through memorable experiences and a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and choir participation. Leaders ensure that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with special educational needs, have access to these opportunities. The school emphasizes respect for different cultures and religions, fostering a strong sense of community and awareness of mental health.
Overall, the teaching quality is generally strong, with pupils typically attentive and hardworking. Occasionally, play during breaktimes can become boisterous, but staff effectively manage these situations, maintaining a firm yet fair approach. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of pupil welfare and regular staff training ensuring vigilance in keeping children safe. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing the understanding of subject-specific concepts in science, history, and geography, to ensure all pupils achieve their best across the curriculum.
