St Pius X Preparatory School
200 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 8RD
Pupils
123
Ages
2 - 11
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Primary
Head Teacher
Mr Charlie Long
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£50 to £2,825
ISC Associations
IAPS, ISBA
Religion
Roman Catholic
Bursaries
Available
About St Pius X Preparatory School
St Pius X Preparatory School is a Roman Catholic co-educational day school that caters to children aged two to eleven. The school is known for its nurturing environment, where the focus is on both academic excellence and the personal development of each child. The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in its religious affiliation, which is reflected in its community spirit and the values it instils in its pupils.
The school offers a broad curriculum that includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside a variety of other subjects like History, Geography, and Art. This diverse curriculum ensures that children receive a well-rounded education, preparing them for the next stages of their academic journey. The school places a strong emphasis on the development of literacy and numeracy skills, which are fundamental to the success of its pupils.
One of the standout features of the school is its commitment to providing a supportive learning environment. The small class sizes allow for personalised attention, enabling teachers to cater to the individual needs of each student. This approach is complemented by the presence of a dedicated Head of Learning Support, who works closely with teachers and parents to ensure that all children, including those with additional needs, are supported effectively.
The school’s extra-curricular programme is designed to enrich the educational experience of its pupils. A wide range of activities is available, including sports, music, and drama, which help to develop teamwork, creativity, and leadership skills. These activities are an integral part of school life, encouraging children to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom.
The pastoral care at the school is another area where it excels. The wellbeing of pupils is a top priority, and the school has a range of initiatives in place to support this. From regular wellbeing sessions to a strong emphasis on building positive relationships, the school creates a safe and nurturing environment where children feel valued and respected.
The school’s facilities are well-maintained and provide a conducive environment for learning. Classrooms are equipped with modern technology, which enhances the teaching and learning experience. The outdoor spaces are also utilised effectively, offering children the opportunity to engage in physical activities and outdoor learning.
Parents are actively involved in the school community, and there is a strong partnership between home and school. Regular communication ensures that parents are kept informed about their child’s progress and school events. This collaborative approach helps to create a supportive network for pupils, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
In summary, St Pius X Preparatory School offers a comprehensive education that balances academic rigour with personal development. Its commitment to providing a supportive and nurturing environment, combined with a broad curriculum and strong pastoral care, makes it a desirable choice for parents seeking a well-rounded education for their children. The school’s focus on values and community spirit, rooted in its Roman Catholic ethos, further enhances the educational experience, preparing pupils not only for academic success but also for life beyond school.
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ISI Review
St Pius X Preparatory School is a co-educational institution located in Fulwood, Preston, catering for children aged 2 to 11 years. Established in 1955, the school operates as a not-for-profit charitable trust and is situated on a four-acre site that includes a Victorian building housing the Reception class and Years 1 to 2, alongside a modern block for older students. The school aims to educate the whole person, fostering a strong connection between home and school while promoting the Roman Catholic faith and encouraging pupils to be caring, courteous, and disciplined.
The school reflects the diverse ethnic mix of the local community, with a significant proportion of pupils from Asian backgrounds. Approximately one in four students is white British, and the school serves a mix of religious backgrounds, primarily Roman Catholic, Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh. The pupils demonstrate a range of abilities, with many performing above the national average. The school has a total enrollment of 263 pupils, including 129 in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). A small number of students receive support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and English as an additional language (EAL).
The recent inspection highlighted the school's success in achieving its principal aims. Children in the EYFS make excellent progress, reaching or exceeding expected developmental levels. In the main school, pupils achieve high standards in literacy and numeracy, with national test results at ages seven and eleven well above the national average for maintained schools. The strong progress is attributed to pupils' positive attitudes towards learning, effective teaching, and the support provided to more able students and those with SEND or EAL.
The quality of teaching is generally good, with lessons characterized by enthusiasm, effective questioning, and a well-paced delivery that engages pupils. In the EYFS, teaching is particularly strong, fostering a love for learning through creative and stimulating activities. The curriculum in the main school is broad and balanced, although there are concerns about the limited time allocated to history and geography. The school provides a good range of extracurricular activities, enhancing the educational experience and promoting personal development.
Pupils' personal development is a notable strength of the school. The pastoral care systems are robust, promoting positive behavior and strong relationships among students. The school actively promotes British values, fostering respect for others and an understanding of different faiths. Pupils demonstrate excellent spiritual awareness and engage in various charitable activities, reflecting their empathy and sense of responsibility towards the community.
Governance and leadership at St Pius X are effective, with a strong emphasis on child protection, health, and safety. The governing body ensures that the school is well-resourced and that teaching and support staff are of high quality. The school has made significant progress in addressing recommendations from previous inspections, although there is still work to be done in developing the roles of subject coordinators and enhancing development planning.
Overall, St Pius X Preparatory School is a successful institution that meets its educational aims, providing a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future challenges. The positive relationships among pupils, staff, and parents contribute to a vibrant school community that values inclusivity and respect for diversity.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024