St Lewis Catholic Primary School in Warrington has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 24, 2023. The school fosters a nurturing and caring environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Students develop positive relationships with both staff and peers, contributing to a strong sense of community. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve their potential.
Pupils express enjoyment in their school experience, highlighting the supportive nature of their friends and staff. The school effectively promotes well-being, including mental health, and older students take pride in supporting younger pupils, which enhances their leadership skills. The calm atmosphere in classrooms allows students to focus on their learning, and behavior across the school is commendable.
Respect for diversity is a key value at St Lewis, with pupils demonstrating a strong sense of fairness and inclusion. The school enriches learning through various trips, including cultural excursions and residential visits, which broaden pupils' experiences. Since the last inspection, the school has successfully addressed challenges related to declining pupil numbers while maintaining a focus on educational quality. The curriculum has been adapted to cater to mixed-age classes, ensuring that all students receive a comprehensive education.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge as they progress through the school. Teachers are clear about what needs to be taught and when, providing a solid foundation for future learning. The school effectively prepares all pupils, including those with SEND, for their next educational steps. In core subjects like English and mathematics, the school regularly assesses how well the curriculum supports knowledge acquisition. However, in a few other subjects, these assessments are less developed, which limits the school's understanding of the curriculum's impact on pupil achievement.
Teachers actively monitor pupil learning during lessons, enabling them to identify those who may need additional support. The school ensures that these pupils receive the necessary help to keep pace with their classmates. Reading is prioritized, with older pupils developing strong reading habits and enthusiasm for literature. Early reading instruction begins promptly, and the phonics curriculum is delivered effectively, ensuring that pupils read books that align with their learning progress.
The school is proactive in identifying the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring that appropriate support is in place as they advance through their education. Children in the early years adapt quickly to school life, demonstrating an understanding of routines that promotes safe and purposeful work and play. Positive behavior among pupils supports their learning, and any minor disruptions are managed effectively by staff.
St Lewis offers a well-designed program for pupils' broader development, teaching them about healthy relationships, including online interactions. The school provides numerous extracurricular activities, enhancing the overall educational experience. Staff members report strong teamwork and supportive relationships within the school, with leaders considering their workload when implementing new initiatives. The school maintains effective communication with parents and carers, fostering collaboration to support pupils' learning both at school and home.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Lewis are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to enhance its checks on curriculum delivery and impact in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils are achieving their best. Overall, St Lewis Catholic Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, characterized by a supportive community and a commitment to pupil well-being and achievement.
