St Catherine's CofE Primary School, located in Horwich, Bolton, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 16 and 17, 2022. The school fosters a caring community where pupils feel happy and safe. They exhibit good manners and politeness, and their enthusiasm for learning is evident. This positive atmosphere is largely attributed to the high expectations set by the staff, who are committed to the success of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils demonstrate commendable behavior throughout the school, both in classrooms and during playtimes. They appreciate the welcoming environment and report that any conflicts or instances of bullying are promptly addressed by staff. This supportive approach contributes to a calm and focused learning environment. Additionally, pupils enjoy participating in various extracurricular clubs, such as computing, dance, and music, which help them develop leadership skills through roles like learning ambassadors and buddies for younger students.
The curriculum at St Catherine's is well-structured and designed to ensure that pupils retain knowledge over time. Subject leaders are passionate and knowledgeable, and they have carefully considered how the curriculum builds on prior learning. Teachers are well-supported in delivering the curriculum, which is evident in the pupils' achievements. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a systematic phonics program that effectively develops pupils' decoding skills. Younger pupils are matched with books that align with their phonics knowledge, enhancing their reading fluency and accuracy.
The school promotes equal opportunities and celebrates diversity, teaching pupils about different cultures and modern British life. This approach fosters respect among pupils, who engage well in lessons and demonstrate good listening skills. Disruptions to learning are infrequent, indicating a positive classroom environment. The governors have a solid understanding of the school's educational quality, and staff feel valued and supported, which contributes to their well-being.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving appropriate training and updates to ensure the safety of all pupils. The school has developed a curriculum that helps pupils manage risks, including online safety. However, there is room for improvement in helping pupils make connections between different subjects, which would deepen their understanding of the curriculum.
Overall, St Catherine's CofE Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The commitment of leaders and staff to the success of each pupil is evident, and the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. The next steps involve enhancing the integration of learning across subjects to further enrich the educational experience for all pupils.
