St Thomas Church of England Primary School, located in Bury, Lancashire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on June 11 and 12, 2024, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes were rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Martin Van Hecke, leads the school, which is part of the Roch Valley Church of England Multi-Academy Trust.
Pupils at St Thomas Church of England Primary School thrive in a nurturing environment where they feel valued and accepted. The school promotes a strong set of values, including trust, friendship, respect, and kindness, which are integrated into the curriculum. This fosters positive relationships among students and staff, contributing to a harmonious school atmosphere. Pupils demonstrate exemplary behaviour, understanding the school rules and appreciating the rewards for their efforts. They develop confidence and resilience, learning to overcome challenges.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, guiding pupils from the early years through to Year 6. Staff are knowledgeable and receive regular training to enhance their expertise across various subjects. Most pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well and are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with effective phonics instruction ensuring that most pupils become fluent readers. The school also encourages a love of reading through engaging texts and well-chosen stories.
While the curriculum is generally delivered effectively, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, opportunities for pupils to recap and consolidate their learning are insufficient, which can hinder their understanding. Additionally, gaps in pupils' knowledge and vocabulary are not always addressed, making it challenging for some to connect new learning with prior knowledge. The school is encouraged to support staff in designing activities that reinforce knowledge retention over time.
The school prioritizes high attendance and provides support to families to reduce absence levels. It also promotes personal development by teaching pupils about diversity, tolerance, and online safety. Pupils learn to respect differences and understand the importance of mental and physical health, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Governance at the school is strong, with local governors actively involved in ensuring that leaders focus on curriculum improvement. Staff feel supported in their professional development, and effective systems are in place for collaboration between the local governing body and the trust. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils' welfare is a priority.
Overall, St Thomas Church of England Primary School is a welcoming and caring environment where pupils flourish academically and personally. The school has established a solid foundation for future growth, with a commitment to continuous improvement in teaching and learning. By addressing the identified areas for development, the school can further enhance its educational provision and ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
