St Theresa’s RC Primary School in Oldham has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 9 and 10, 2024. The school is recognized for its effective leadership and management, quality of education, and positive behavior and attitudes among pupils. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of safety and happiness, with pupils enjoying their time at school and engaging positively with one another during breaks. The school promotes high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, fostering an environment where pupils strive to meet these standards.
Pupils feel comfortable reporting any instances of bullying or unkind behavior, trusting that staff will address these issues promptly. The foundation for positive behavior is established in the early years, where children learn essential social skills such as sharing and following instructions. This foundation supports older pupils in maintaining focus during lessons, contributing to a calm and purposeful classroom atmosphere. Most pupils achieve well academically, and they take pride in their various responsibilities, including roles as ambassadors and participation in extracurricular activities like sports and gardening clubs.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with additional needs. The curriculum is structured to ensure that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge in a logical sequence, starting from the early years and progressing through key stage one. While the curriculum is generally delivered effectively, there are instances where some teachers do not address pupils' misunderstandings quickly enough, which can hinder their learning. The school is proactive in identifying additional needs early and collaborates with external professionals to provide effective support, enabling pupils with SEND to learn alongside their peers.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements in the delivery of its early reading curriculum. Most teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and implement the phonics scheme consistently. Children in the nursery year are engaged in activities that build their spoken language skills, preparing them for phonics in the reception year. The emphasis on reading is evident, with pupils enjoying a wide range of high-quality texts that enhance their learning experience.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, rarely disrupting their peers' learning. The school has established clear procedures for managing attendance and punctuality, working diligently with local authorities to address barriers that some families face. This effort has resulted in improved attendance rates.
The school also prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils about important issues such as equality and diversity. Pupils are encouraged to empathize with those less fortunate and actively participate in charitable initiatives. The governing body has become increasingly effective, supporting the school in addressing previous areas for improvement.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for growth. Some parents feel that their concerns are not always addressed adequately, which can affect the school's engagement with families. The school is encouraged to enhance its communication with parents to build confidence in its support for their children's education. Overall, St Theresa’s RC Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for all its pupils, with a clear path for continued improvement.
