Our Lady and St Philomena’s Catholic Primary School in Liverpool received a good overall effectiveness rating during its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a safe and happy environment for its pupils. Students express that they feel secure and valued, which contributes to a positive atmosphere in the classrooms. The learning environment is described as calm yet vibrant, with pupils actively engaged in their studies. The school promotes healthy eating habits through its breakfast club, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their lessons.
Pupils at the school exhibit positive behavior and a strong understanding of respect for themselves and others. They are aware of the expectations set by the school leaders and understand the consequences of not adhering to the behavior guidelines. Disagreements among pupils are addressed promptly, and instances of bullying are managed effectively. The school fosters inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, feel welcomed and achieve well academically.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, particularly for the early years. Teachers are knowledgeable about the content they need to deliver and when to do so, which supports the development of communication and language skills from a young age. Lesson content is chosen carefully to maintain pupil interest and challenge them appropriately. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in helping pupils to recall prior learning, which can hinder their ability to connect new knowledge with what they have previously learned.
The school has made significant strides in teaching early reading, with pupils mastering the basics of reading quickly. The phonics curriculum is well-supported by leaders and external experts, ensuring that pupils who struggle with reading receive the necessary assistance. Despite this, there is a noted gap in exposure to a diverse range of literature for older pupils, which can limit their understanding and appreciation of various authors and genres.
While the attainment of some Year 6 pupils was below national averages in reading and writing in 2022, this does not fully reflect the progress made by many pupils across subjects. The school adapts its curriculum delivery to meet the needs of pupils who join later, ensuring they can learn successfully. Leaders have also improved subject curriculums and support for individual pupils, contributing to overall achievement.
The school prioritizes safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs that pupils may need help, and there is a strong culture of communication between pupils and adults. Pupils are educated about personal safety, including online dangers, which empowers them to protect themselves.
Staff satisfaction is high, with leaders fostering a supportive environment that values their input and professional development. Governors play an active role in challenging and supporting the school’s leadership. Overall, the school is well-regarded by its community, and while there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring all pupils have access to a broad range of literature and in reinforcing prior learning, the school is on a positive trajectory.
