St Gabriel’s CofE Primary School, located in Huyton, Liverpool, has recently undergone an inspection, with the overall effectiveness rated as good. The school, which is part of the Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Amanda Bushell. The inspection took place on January 30 and 31, 2024, and it was noted that the school had not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
Pupils at St Gabriel’s are described as exceptional ambassadors for the school, demonstrating happiness, responsibility, and a commitment to the school’s values. They engage actively in various leadership roles and exhibit positive attitudes towards learning. The staff maintain high expectations for pupil performance, which contributes to the overall positive learning environment. Pupils are encouraged to understand important concepts such as democracy, the rule of law, and equality, and they participate in community service initiatives, such as fundraising for charities and beautifying their local area.
The school has developed a well-structured and ambitious curriculum that caters to the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is effectively delivered by skilled staff, allowing most pupils to build on their knowledge as they progress through the school. However, there are instances where learning does not adapt sufficiently to deepen pupils' understanding of certain subjects. The early years curriculum is also ambitious, focusing on communication and language skills, but some aspects are not delivered as effectively as intended, which can hinder readiness for Year 1.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding, which helps identify gaps in learning and allows for targeted support. The school fosters a strong reading culture, with pupils developing a love for reading from an early age. The phonics program is well-implemented, ensuring that children become fluent and confident readers. The school is proactive in identifying pupils with special educational needs, working closely with specialists and families to provide tailored support.
Attendance is prioritized, and the school employs effective strategies to improve attendance rates. Disruptions due to poor behavior are rare, allowing pupils to focus on their learning. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that support personal development, including clubs for choir, coding, drama, and sports. Pupils are encouraged to take on roles such as school council members and anti-bullying ambassadors, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The trust and local governing body maintain oversight of the school’s performance, providing both support and challenge. Staff well-being is considered in decision-making processes, and parental engagement is strong, with parents actively participating in workshops and school activities. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the school needs to ensure that learning is adapted to allow pupils to deepen their knowledge in all subjects and that the early years curriculum is delivered effectively to prepare children for future learning. Overall, St Gabriel’s CofE Primary School is a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement and personal growth among its pupils.
