St Winefride’s Catholic Primary School in Little Neston, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on February 7 and 8, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy to attend and eager to learn. Students express pride in their school, describing it as a special place where they feel valued and supported. The school emphasizes the importance of academic achievement, and most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, with children displaying friendliness and politeness towards one another and visitors. The school’s core values, which include excellence, happiness, respect, resilience, compassion, and faith, are evident in the interactions among students. The relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by kindness and care, contributing to a nurturing atmosphere. Pupils take pride in being role models for their peers, particularly when they are chosen as class representatives for demonstrating excellent behavior.
St Winefride’s offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience. Clubs such as construction, nature, football, and drawing provide opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and develop new skills. The school encourages pupils to think about their community, with students actively participating in fundraising efforts for local charities, demonstrating their compassion and social responsibility.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, starting from the early years. The phonics program is effectively delivered, ensuring that children develop strong reading skills. Reception class pupils enjoy engaging with stories and are supported in their reading journeys. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND. However, there are areas where the curriculum has recently been revised, and the key content has not been clearly identified. This has led to some pupils not achieving their full potential in certain subjects.
Regular assessments are conducted to monitor pupil progress, and staff are quick to provide support when needed. The school is proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Staff training is prioritized to equip teachers with the necessary skills to support all students effectively.
Pupils demonstrate resilience and a willingness to collaborate when faced with challenges in their learning. They take pride in their work and enjoy discussing their educational experiences. The school provides a broad range of activities that contribute to the personal development of pupils, including leadership roles that help younger students acclimate to school life.
Staff members feel supported by the school, which prioritizes their well-being and professional development. The governing body is actively involved in maintaining the quality of education, providing both support and challenge to the school leadership.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Winefride’s are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on refining the curriculum in certain subjects to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. Overall, St Winefride’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils.
