St Thomas Church of England Primary School in Lydiate has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy, achieving an outstanding rating across all areas. The school, which serves a mixed-gender population of 240 pupils aged four to eleven, is part of the Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust. The leadership team, including Head of School Emily Alty and Executive Headteacher Mark Ward, has established a strong foundation for educational excellence. The school community is characterized by a commitment to high standards, which is evident in the curriculum and the overall atmosphere of the school.
Pupils at St Thomas are enthusiastic about their education and demonstrate a strong sense of pride in their school. The curriculum is engaging and well-structured, allowing all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to thrive. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a robust phonics program that supports early literacy development. Children in the early years are immersed in rich language experiences, while older pupils exhibit a positive attitude towards reading and can articulate their preferences for different authors and genres.
Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with pupils showing respect and tolerance towards one another and understanding the values of being responsible citizens. The school fosters a culture of kindness and consideration, which is reflected in the strong relationships between staff and students. Pupils actively contribute to the school community through various leadership roles, enhancing their personal development and teamwork skills. The school’s program for personal development is comprehensive, equipping pupils with essential life skills and knowledge about financial literacy and community involvement.
The staff at St Thomas benefit from high-quality training and support, which enables them to deliver the curriculum effectively. They utilize assessment data to identify and address gaps in pupils' knowledge, ensuring that all students make significant progress. The school’s approach to teaching is informed by educational research, and the curriculum is designed to provide a coherent learning journey from the early years through to Year Six.
The school’s leadership is supported by a dedicated board of trustees and local governing body, who share a commitment to continuous improvement. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, praising its nurturing environment and the positive impact it has on their children’s education. The school has established effective safeguarding measures, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
Overall, St Thomas Church of England Primary School exemplifies educational excellence, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and community engagement. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment is evident in the achievements and well-being of its pupils. The inspection findings highlight the effectiveness of the school’s leadership, the quality of education provided, and the outstanding behaviour and attitudes of the students. As the school continues to build on its successes, it remains well-positioned to provide an exceptional educational experience for all its pupils.
