St Peter’s Church of England Primary School in Wem, Shropshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on March 16 and 17, 2022. The school provides a supportive and safe environment where pupils feel cared for and valued. Relationships among pupils are strong, and they express confidence in the adults at the school to address any issues, including bullying, which is reported to be rare. The school fosters a culture where pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as being librarians or anti-bullying ambassadors, which they approach with seriousness and enthusiasm.
The leadership team has undergone significant changes in recent years, including the appointment of a new headteacher and deputy headteacher. These leaders have implemented various changes that have positively impacted the quality of education. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, designed to build on pupils' existing knowledge and skills. The structured approach to reading is commendable, with pupils engaging in regular reading activities both at home and in school. However, there are inconsistencies in the delivery of phonics sessions, which can hinder the progress of some pupils, particularly those who struggle with reading.
Mathematics instruction is well-structured, with a clear progression of learning that begins in early years and continues throughout the school. The curriculum in other subjects, such as art and geography, is also well-planned, although there are instances where teachers do not fully implement the intended curriculum, leading to varied outcomes for pupils. This inconsistency can result in activities that are either too challenging or do not align with the learning objectives.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, with teachers making necessary adaptations to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum. Collaboration among staff across the trust has been beneficial, allowing for shared expertise and reduced workload. However, some subject leaders require additional support and training to fully understand and execute their roles.
Personal development is a key focus at St Peter’s, with pupils demonstrating respect and responsibility. They articulate the importance of values such as teamwork, care, and fairness, which are integrated into the school culture. Staff report feeling well-supported, with leaders considering their well-being and work-life balance.
The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, with pupils feeling safe and confident that their concerns will be addressed. Leaders ensure that pupils are equipped with the knowledge to keep themselves safe, and staff receive regular training to identify and respond to potential issues.
To improve, the school must ensure that all staff deliver the phonics program consistently to enhance reading fluency among all pupils. Additionally, subject leaders need to monitor the implementation of their curricula more effectively to ensure that teaching aligns with the intended learning outcomes. By addressing these areas, the school can continue to build on its strengths and provide an excellent educational experience for all its pupils.
