The Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School in Runcorn, Cheshire, has received a positive inspection report, indicating an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on July 2 and 3, 2024, and highlighted several strengths within the school. Pupils at the school enjoy their time and feel welcomed, fostering a supportive environment where they work and play together harmoniously. The school promotes a culture of care, with pupils recognizing the importance of looking after one another and understanding that they can approach trusted adults when in need.
The school has established high expectations for pupil achievement, and students demonstrate a strong desire to learn, working diligently in their lessons. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils build their knowledge progressively over time. The school encourages pupils to think about their future aspirations, exemplified by participation in the Children’s University program. Behaviour in the school is commendable, with pupils understanding the expected standards and adhering to school rules, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents. For instance, all pupils learn to play the guitar from Year 4 onwards. Opportunities for leadership and responsibility are provided, with pupils engaging in various roles such as eco-team members and subject ambassadors. The school also emphasizes community involvement through charity work.
While the school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement, there are areas for further development. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, the early years curriculum lacks clarity in identifying the small steps of learning necessary for children to achieve their learning goals. This sometimes hinders the ability of staff to build on what children already know effectively.
In mathematics, the school has recognized that pupils struggled with recalling essential facts, such as times tables, which affected their progress. The school has taken steps to address this by ensuring that this aspect of learning receives appropriate focus in the curriculum. Despite these challenges, the school has ensured that staff are well-trained to deliver the curriculum effectively, allowing pupils to build their knowledge over time.
Pupils are generally well-behaved and engaged in lessons, with rare instances of disruption being managed effectively by teachers. The school prioritizes good attendance and works closely with parents to support regular school attendance. Pupils learn about different cultures and religions, fostering an understanding of tolerance and respect for others.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The governing body is actively involved in overseeing improvements and has a strong understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development. Overall, the Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils, with clear pathways for continued improvement.