St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School, located in Stoke-on-Trent, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on November 15 and 16, 2022. The school is recognized for its overall effectiveness, achieving a rating of good across various categories, including the quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision. Notably, the school excelled in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development, both rated as outstanding.
The school’s motto, Making the heart, mind and spirit soar, is evident in the daily experiences of the pupils. High attendance rates reflect the enjoyment that students find in their school environment, which is characterized by care, kindness, and encouragement. From the early years, children are taught the importance of respect and kindness, fostering a culture where bullying is rare. The school promotes a diverse learning environment where pupils appreciate and learn about each other's cultures and traditions.
Leaders and teachers at St Thomas Aquinas have high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. They invest significant time and effort into identifying the needs of children early on, ensuring that support is available as soon as possible. The curriculum is well-structured and sequenced, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. However, some subjects have recently undergone redevelopment, and while the sequence of learning is clear, the smaller steps toward skill and knowledge acquisition need further definition.
Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and present new learning effectively, often supported by high-quality resources. Nonetheless, there are instances where teachers may not fully understand what pupils have previously learned, which can hinder the learning process. Regular assessments are in place to monitor pupil understanding and identify those who may need additional support.
Reading is prioritized at the school, with early reading behaviors introduced in nursery and phonics taught from the beginning of Reception. The school has established effective routines for teaching reading, and pupils who require extra help are quickly identified and supported. The enthusiasm for reading is evident, with pupils expressing enjoyment in their reading activities and participating in buddy systems to assist younger students.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils understand the importance of respect and acceptance. This is reinforced through the curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Displays throughout the school celebrate the opportunities available for pupils to develop their character and aspirations. Staff members feel valued and supported, and parents express positive feedback regarding the school and its staff.
The multi-academy company overseeing the school provides effective support and ensures compliance with statutory duties. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders knowing the children and families well and providing additional support options. Staff receive appropriate training, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some components of the curriculum are still in the early stages of redevelopment, and leaders are encouraged to review and embed these changes to ensure the intended impact. Additionally, it is essential for teachers to have sufficient time to familiarize themselves with the learning sequence across subjects, particularly where significant changes have occurred. Overall, St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
