St Peter’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Newchurch, Lancashire, has received an outstanding inspection report following its evaluation on 15 and 16 October 2024. The school has consistently demonstrated excellence across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained its outstanding status since its last inspection in November 2014, prior to which it was exempt from routine inspections due to its high performance.
Pupils at St Peter’s thrive in a nurturing environment characterized by strong relationships with staff who prioritize their well-being. Each day begins with warm greetings from teachers, fostering a positive atmosphere. The presence of Fable, the school dog, adds to the comforting environment, enhancing the overall experience for students. The school is committed to high aspirations for all pupils, aiming to unlock their potential through love, respect, and friendship. This commitment is evident from the early years, where children engage in a well-structured and ambitious curriculum designed to prepare them for future academic challenges.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, with students showing consistent respect and kindness towards one another and adults. Older pupils take pride in representing the school positively, contributing to a harmonious school culture. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that cater to various interests, allowing pupils to develop confidence and independence through outdoor and adventurous experiences.
Governance at St Peter’s is robust, with governors effectively challenging and supporting the school. They have established comprehensive processes to monitor the quality of education, ensuring an inclusive environment for all students. The curriculum is ambitious and well-defined, with clear expectations for knowledge and skills from the early years onward. The school has successfully adapted its curriculum to meet the needs of mixed-age classes, ensuring that all pupils make significant progress across subjects.
Staff members possess a deep understanding of the curriculum, regularly assessing pupils' knowledge and addressing any gaps in learning. This approach ensures that pupils build their knowledge securely over time. The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with additional needs, providing tailored activities that enable these students to thrive alongside their peers.
St Peter’s places a strong emphasis on developing pupils’ language, communication, and reading skills. Older pupils express enthusiasm for the books they read, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of literary themes. This focus on literacy contributes significantly to their overall development. Pupils exhibit high levels of motivation and resilience, learning to navigate challenges and prioritize their physical and mental well-being. Attendance rates are commendable, with most pupils attending regularly and punctually.
The school promotes respect and acceptance among pupils, ensuring they understand the importance of treating everyone with dignity, regardless of background or beliefs. Staff provide age-appropriate education on healthy relationships and personal development, equipping pupils with essential life skills. The school’s approach to personal development is exceptional, offering numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in clubs and activities that foster their talents and interests.
Pupils actively participate in school life and the wider community, taking on various responsibilities that enhance their leadership skills. Staff feel supported in their roles, with the school prioritizing their well-being and providing necessary resources. Parents and carers hold the school in high regard, appreciating the communication and information they receive about their children’s experiences.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Peter’s are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, St Peter’s Roman Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its students.
