Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School in Liverpool has shown significant improvement since its last inspection, moving from a status of requires improvement to being rated as good in all areas. The school is characterized by a positive and ambitious environment where leaders are dedicated to providing the best educational experience for every pupil. The school fosters resilience and independence among its students, preparing them well for secondary education and their roles in the community.
Despite being a large primary school, staff members know each pupil well and prioritize their safety. The school maintains strong partnerships with parents and carers, focusing on enhancing children's reading skills and supporting their mental health. Pupils express enjoyment in participating in a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, sports, and arts, which contribute to their overall development. The school promotes a culture of enthusiasm and engagement, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and positive relationships with their teachers. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when issues arise, staff address them promptly.
The leadership team, including the headteacher and governors, has made substantial strides in redesigning the curriculum to raise expectations and improve learning outcomes across subjects. The focus on reading, writing, and mathematics has been particularly effective, with pupils showing marked progress in these areas. The school has implemented a structured approach to teaching phonics, ensuring that children begin reading as soon as they enter Reception. By Year 1, many pupils meet the expected standards in reading assessments, and the school fosters a love of reading among its students.
The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with careful planning in subjects like science, geography, and history. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the use of assessment in some subjects, which can hinder pupils' understanding of what they have learned. Leaders are aware of the need to enhance assessment practices to ensure that all pupils are confident in their knowledge.
The school also provides a nurturing environment for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they are fully included in all aspects of learning. The early years provision is strong, with staff focusing on developing children's language skills and providing a well-structured curriculum. By the end of the early years, a higher-than-average proportion of children achieve a good level of development.
While attendance has improved, persistent absence remains a challenge for some pupils, impacting their learning. Leaders recognize the need to work closely with parents to address this issue. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to ensure pupils feel safe and supported.
Overall, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School has made commendable progress, creating a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The commitment of the leadership team and staff to continuous improvement is evident, and with ongoing efforts to enhance assessment practices and attendance, the school is well-positioned for future success.
