English Martyrs’ Catholic Primary School in Preston has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 28 and 29 March 2023. The school fosters a supportive community where pupils, including those in early years, engage positively with one another. They take pride in their school and enjoy the relationships they build with staff, which are grounded in mutual respect. Lunchtime is particularly cherished, as pupils appreciate the opportunity to share their experiences with teachers.
The school effectively addresses any incidents of bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know they can turn to trusted adults for support. Many students utilize a designated calming space known as ‘the snug’ when feeling anxious. High expectations are set by school leaders regarding pupil behavior, and students quickly adapt to established routines, demonstrating sensible behavior throughout the school. Older pupils take joy in mentoring younger students as ‘reading buddies.’
The curriculum at English Martyrs’ is broad and balanced, allowing all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to thrive academically. Leaders have designed an ambitious curriculum that builds logically on prior knowledge, and teachers possess strong subject knowledge, enabling them to provide clear explanations and address misconceptions effectively. Regular checks on pupil understanding help ensure that learning is on track.
Pupils benefit from exciting opportunities that enhance their educational experience, such as school trips to parks, farms, and museums, as well as participation in regional competitions. Leaders encourage high aspirations among pupils, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement for future opportunities, including higher education.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Some governors have not been sufficiently informed about certain leadership aspects, which limits their ability to hold leaders accountable for educational quality. Additionally, attendance remains a concern, as some pupils do not attend regularly enough, hindering their progress. Leaders, along with governors, must ensure that these pupils and their families receive the necessary support to improve attendance.
In terms of curriculum delivery, while most teachers select appropriate activities that align with the intended curriculum, there are instances in a few subjects where this is not the case. This inconsistency can hinder some pupils’ learning and their ability to build on existing knowledge. Leaders should focus on providing additional support to teachers in these areas to enhance the overall learning experience.
The school has made significant strides in reading, with a strong emphasis placed on phonics from the early years. Children in Nursery and Reception enjoy stories and rhymes, and staff are well-equipped to support language development. Most staff have received relevant training in phonics, although a small number are still becoming familiar with the new program. Leaders have plans in place to support these staff members.
Overall, English Martyrs’ Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with effective safeguarding measures in place. Staff are well-trained and vigilant regarding pupil safety, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, particularly in relation to online dangers. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the well-being of its pupils is evident, making it a commendable institution within the community.
