St Francis’ Catholic Primary School in Goosnargh has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 22 September 2021. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel safe and happy, contributing to a caring community. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, encouraging them to embody the school’s values. Pupils, including those in early years, demonstrate care for one another and strive to perform their best. Instances of bullying are reported as rare, with teachers effectively addressing any issues that arise. Most pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons, motivated by their desire to learn.
The school offers a diverse range of sports and extracurricular clubs, with pupils taking pride in their achievements in competitions such as football and tennis. Many students enjoy initiating and managing their own clubs during playtime, including a reading club started by younger pupils. Older students often take on responsibilities, such as being buddies for younger children or caring for school animals, which helps foster a sense of community and environmental awareness through various recycling initiatives.
The curriculum at St Francis’ is ambitious and aligned with the school’s values, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. By the end of Year 6, students achieve well across subjects, preparing them for secondary education. Subject leaders have clearly defined the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire, allowing teachers to build on prior learning effectively. For instance, Year 5 pupils connected their new knowledge of electricity to previous lessons from Year 2. In art, students explored fauvism, applying skills developed in earlier years. Teachers utilize assessments to monitor pupils’ understanding and address misconceptions.
Phonics instruction begins in the Reception Year, with staff receiving training to deliver the early reading curriculum effectively. Books are carefully matched to the phonics sounds pupils have learned, enhancing their reading accuracy and confidence. The school’s library and book corners are popular among students, and those who struggle with reading receive timely support to help them catch up. By the end of Year 2, nearly all pupils can read fluently.
Governors support school leaders and challenge them regarding the quality of the curriculum and pupil achievement in English and mathematics. However, they need to focus more on how well pupils learn and retain information in other subjects, such as history and science. Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, with the special educational needs coordinator guiding teachers to ensure these pupils can access the full curriculum.
Early years children quickly learn routines and demonstrate courteous behavior, contributing to a calm atmosphere throughout the school. Leaders provide various opportunities for pupils to develop beyond academics, including lessons on aspects of Islam and Judaism, promoting tolerance and understanding.
Staff express pride in working at the school, appreciating leaders’ consideration of their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils learn about safety through the curriculum, covering topics such as safe relationships and online safety.
To improve, the governing body must enhance their challenge to leaders regarding how well pupils learn and remember the curriculum across all subjects. This will ensure a comprehensive understanding of pupil achievement throughout the school.
