St Giles Catholic Primary School, located in Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, has been inspected recently and continues to maintain its overall judgement of good. The inspection, conducted on 12 and 13 March 2024, indicated that the school might achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place now. The school is led by Executive Principal Gillian Wretham and is part of The Painsley Catholic Academy, which includes a network of 16 schools. The governance structure involves a board of trustees, chaired by Ken Wilson, and a head of school, Claire Wilkin, who oversees daily operations.
The school fosters a culture of high expectations and care, where pupils thrive academically, personally, and socially. The motto better together resonates with leaders, staff, parents, and pupils alike. Parents express satisfaction with the school's ability to encourage their children to be their best selves. Pupils demonstrate exceptional behaviour and are motivated to meet the high expectations set by staff. The school's Catholic values play a significant role in shaping the pupils' attitudes, promoting tolerance and respect for diverse cultures and beliefs.
St Giles offers a variety of opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents. Initiatives such as a laser tag and chess club have been developed in collaboration with pupils, showcasing their input in extracurricular activities. The school also supports parents in accessing specialist providers to further enhance their children's talents. Leadership roles are available for older pupils, who take their responsibilities seriously, contributing positively to the school community.
The curriculum at St Giles is well-structured and ambitious, covering a broad range of subjects. Essential knowledge and skills are clearly identified, allowing for effective progression in learning. For instance, in design and technology, pupils build on their skills year after year, learning to join materials in increasingly complex ways. Teachers employ various strategies to help pupils retain and apply their learning, ensuring that gaps in understanding are promptly addressed.
Pupils benefit from well-planned educational visits that enrich their learning experiences. These excursions are integrated into the curriculum and are well-received by students, who feel they enhance their understanding of various subjects. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with dedicated librarians and staff who promote a love for literature. Phonics instruction is consistent and effective, enabling pupils to become confident readers quickly.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students receive appropriate support. Technology is utilized to assist those with specific challenges, allowing them to engage fully with the curriculum. The personal development programme is thoughtfully integrated into school life, teaching pupils about resilience, creativity, and the importance of understanding different cultures.
Governance at St Giles is proactive, with governors and directors leveraging their expertise to drive continuous improvement. They work collaboratively with school leaders and staff to identify areas for enhancement. The well-being of staff is prioritized, fostering a positive and cohesive working environment. Overall, St Giles Catholic Primary School exemplifies a commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and community engagement, positioning itself as a strong educational institution within its locality.
