Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Chorley has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 22 and 23, 2023. The school is characterized by a warm and supportive community where leaders and staff maintain high expectations for the academic achievement, behavior, and personal development of all pupils, including those in the early years. Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences and demonstrate enthusiasm for acquiring new knowledge. The school fosters excellent relationships between pupils and staff, with educators serving as positive role models who help students understand their emotions and feelings. This supportive environment ensures that pupils feel happy, safe, and well cared for.
The school promotes kindness and friendliness among pupils, effectively addressing any instances of bullying through skilled intervention that encourages behavioral reflection and change. Pupils have access to a wide range of extracurricular clubs and activities, which contribute to their physical fitness and social skills. They take pride in their school community and actively participate in initiatives such as the school council and anti-bullying ambassador roles, while also engaging in charitable activities that extend beyond the school.
Governors, leaders, and staff are committed to realizing their vision for high-quality education and personal development opportunities. They work collaboratively to evaluate and enhance their practices, resulting in strong pupil development and achievement. The curriculum is broad and balanced, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils make significant progress in their knowledge and retention across various subjects.
While leaders have established clear learning objectives in many subject areas, some aspects of the early years curriculum lack specificity regarding the knowledge children should acquire. This gap can lead to inconsistencies in preparing children for the next stage of their education. Staff demonstrate secure subject knowledge and present material clearly, facilitating effective learning experiences. They thoughtfully organize learning spaces and resources, which helps maintain positive attitudes toward learning and minimizes disruptions.
Assessment strategies are effectively designed and implemented, allowing staff to identify knowledge gaps and provide necessary support. Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with staff well-equipped to deliver an ambitious reading curriculum. Pupils receive tailored support to address any gaps in their phonics knowledge, resulting in increased confidence in their reading abilities. The promotion of reading is evident, with many pupils developing a genuine love for literature.
Leaders are dedicated to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of pupils and their families, ensuring that support programs are well-matched to individual requirements. They maintain strong communication with parents, who appreciate the information and assistance provided regarding their children's education. The personal development program is comprehensive, equipping pupils with essential knowledge about safety, health, and relationships, while instilling values that encourage positive community contributions.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to staff support, with leaders providing both professional and personal assistance to help staff manage workload and well-being challenges. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address safety concerns. Leaders follow up on any issues diligently, crafting individualized plans to support pupils and their families.
To improve, the school should clarify the specific knowledge that children need to learn in certain areas of the early years curriculum to ensure better alignment with key stage one expectations. This will enhance the preparation of children for their subsequent educational stages. Overall, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
