St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, has been recognized for its warm and welcoming environment, fostering high expectations for pupil achievement. The school promotes a culture where pupils feel safe, supported, and happy, contributing to their positive attitudes towards learning. The school’s vision to build and share together is evident in the way pupils engage with their education. Behaviour across the school is commendable, creating a calm and purposeful atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils are attentive, supportive of one another, and aware of whom to approach with concerns.
The school benefits from a well-resourced outdoor environment that enhances pupil engagement and learning. Older pupils take on additional responsibilities, such as lunch-time support and well-being champions, which they value. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers effectively use assessment strategies to ensure that pupils build their knowledge securely over time. However, there are areas where the school needs to improve. In some subjects, the important content and vocabulary that pupils should learn are not clearly defined, making it challenging for teachers to design effective learning activities. This can hinder some pupils' ability to learn and retain information.
Reading is a central focus of the school’s curriculum. The Reading Garden provides a rich environment for pupils to immerse themselves in books, encouraging a love for reading. The phonics programme begins in the Reception class, supported by a language-rich environment in the Nursery. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may struggle with reading, ensuring they receive timely support to become confident and fluent readers.
The school is highly inclusive, with pupils with special educational needs achieving well alongside their peers. Staff collaborate effectively to identify and address the needs of these pupils, and the SEN unit offers tailored programmes that support their learning and well-being. Behaviour in the classroom and around the school is positive, with pupils demonstrating kindness and politeness. Early years children learn essential social skills, such as sharing and taking turns, from a young age. The school’s Good to be Green initiative reinforces high behavioural expectations, allowing for a focused learning environment.
Attendance is prioritized, with ongoing improvements attributed to various initiatives aimed at supporting families. The school encourages parental engagement and offers additional support when necessary. The well-being hub within the school helps pupils understand their own and others' feelings, fostering a respectful and caring community. Opportunities for wider development are provided through roles such as support buddies and house captains.
The school has cultivated a supportive culture among staff, taking steps to manage workload effectively. Governors are well-informed about the school’s quality of education and provide valuable support and challenge. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school must clearly define the essential knowledge and skills in certain subjects to improve pupil learning outcomes. Additionally, addressing gaps in teachers' subject-specific knowledge will enable them to deliver the curriculum more effectively. Overall, St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education while fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for all its pupils.
